Surf Coast Shire residents honour Anzac Day with services across the region

RESIDENTS of the Surf Coast Shire are preparing to honour the memory and service of veterans with multiple commemorative events this ANZAC Day.

From the early morning service in Torquay to the wreath laying in Winchelsea, residents have several opportunities to pay their respects.

In Anglesea, the day begins with a march at 9.45 am from McMillan Street to Murray Street, culminating in a service at the Anglesea Memorial Hall at 10 am.

Lorne’s observance starts with a 7 am service at Anzac Memorial Park, followed by a gunfire breakfast at Lorne Bowls Club car park, and a march from the Lorne Visitor Information Centre to Anzac Memorial Park at 10.45 am.

Torquay’s ceremony commences at 5.45 am at Point Danger, also followed by a gunfire breakfast.

In Winchelsea, the community gathers at 10.30 am for a service and wreath laying at the Winchelsea Reserve RSL clubrooms.

Amid these events, former Royal Australian Navy Lieutenant Jess Sullivan reflects on the significance of the day.

“There is that unique connection you get from having served, and for me Anzac Day is commemorating the original history, but also the more recent history,” Ms Sullivan said.

Sullivan highlights the importance of community and recognition, especially for veterans who don’t fit the traditional image.

“Having lost shipmates to mental illness, and knowing a lot of people are still struggling post-service I think it’s important that we come together and demonstrate that we recognise what people have been through on behalf of this country.

“People don’t look at me and see a veteran. There is this young group of us who have experienced a lot, and it’s nice to know that people recognise that.

“That minute of silence, when you’ve got that many people together and you could hear a pin drop, just the level of reverence that comes from that can be overwhelming.”

Jess, who joined the military inspired by her late mother, a proud army reservist, sees Anzac Day as a time to connect with her roots and honor both past and present sacrifices.

Now a consultant in the disability sector and a yoga instructor, she brings a resilience-focused approach to her teaching, particularly for veterans.

As Jess looks forward to the day, she notes the importance of being together.

“It is so nice to have people back together again,” Jess says.