Torquay RSL plans largest-ever Anzac Day commemoration

TORQUAY RSL is gearing up for what is expected to be the largest Anzac Day commemoration in its history in 2025.

Recognised as the largest service in Victoria outside of the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, the Point Danger Dawn Service in Torquay traditionally attracts huge crowds.

Before COVID-19, crowds of up to 20,000 attended. This year’s commemoration drew about 10,000 people.

Given the convergence of school holidays, the Rip Curl Pro Bells surfing contest, Easter, and Anzac Day falling on a Friday in 2025, stakeholders anticipate record-breaking attendance.

Torquay RSL president Paul Barker said the organisation is seeking financial and management support from RSL Victoria to accommodate the event’s scale.

“The Torquay RSL has made a sophisticated submission to RSL Victoria to gain financial assistance and management support for the event,” Mr Barker said.

“Extensive discussions have been held and support received from the Surf Coast Shire, GORCAPA, and VICPOL via the Torquay police.

“Anzac Day is a community event and we at the RSL want to show the community our gratitude for their interest in veterans and their generosity.”

To ensure the event’s success, Torquay RSL has appointed Moon Mother Productions as the prime contractor.

Moon Mother Productions’ Jenny Moon highlighted the necessity of early planning.

“It was essential to make the appointment early due to the fact that in 2025 the Bells Beach event would receive extensive local, national and international media coverage as part of the WSL Tour,” Ms Moon said.

Torquay RSL vice-president Darcy Dunstan praised Moon Mother Productions for its previous work and the importance of the ongoing collaboration.

“We applaud the professionalism of the Moon Mother organisation after an outstanding presentation for ANZAC Day 2024,.” he said.

“It was appropriate to have a close relationship to get the 2025 commemoration planning initiated early but importantly reward Moon Mother for its loyalty to Torquay RSL and the Torquay township and district.”