The City of Fremantle is planning a range of events and services to ensure local residents have opportunities to pay their respects this Anzac Day.
In a welcomed move from tradition, this year marks an important change to Fremantle War Memorial’s Dawn Service order of proceedings when the Ode of Remembrance will be recited in Noongar language for the first time ever.
Fremantle Mayor Brad Pettitt said the Ode of Remembrance was written in 1914 and recounted at every Anzac Day service around the country.
“Last year Professor Len Collard from the Australian Research Council and The University of Western Australia’s School of Indigenous Studies translated the Ode into Noongar language,” Mayor Pettitt said.
“We are very honoured to have Professor Collard attend our Dawn Service at Fremantle War Memorial and read the Ode of Remembrance in Noongar language.
“It will be a significant occasion for Fremantle, and furthers our commitment for cultural inclusivity and respecting Aboriginal history and people.”
The Dawn Service at Fremantle War Memorial commences at 5.50am, with a second service at North Fremantle’s Fallen Soldiers Memorial Park at 9am.
To assist people attending the Dawn Service, the City has organised designated free parking at Beach Street carparks (CP12A and CP12B) and John Curtin College of the Arts’ carpark (90 Ellen Street) until 12pm. There will be a free shuttle bus service running from Beach Street and John Curtin College of the Arts to Monument Hill between 5-6am and 6.30-7.30am. Additional parking options are available on the , with free parking available until 8am.
Free public transport is available for anyone wearing military uniform or medals travelling to Fremantle’s Anzac Day services. Connecting shuttle buses to Monument Hill will depart Fremantle Station Stand 3 at 4.35am and 5.05am, and return after the Dawn Service.
The Anzac Day commemorations will conclude with the traditional March through the main streets of Fremantle before returning to Esplanade Reserve for the Closing Ceremony.
Road closures will be in place from 9.30 to 11.30am and affects Nairn Street, Collie Street, Bannister Street, Essex Street, Norfolk Lane, Essex Lane, Marine Terrace, Cliff Street, Mouat Street, Henry Street, High Street, Market Street, South Terrace and Pakenham Street.
