We will remember them. Lest we forget.

SURF COAST residents in their thousands gathered for Anzac Day commemorations across the region

At Point Danger in Torquay close to 10,000 people attended the ceremony that commenced at 5.45 am.

The solemn sound of the Last Post echoed through the morning air as attendees paid their respects in silence.

The Torquay community came together to honour the sacrifices made by Australian and New Zealand Army Corps during the Gallipoli landings in 1915 and to honour the contribution and suffering of all who have served since.

RSL Bob Brackin spoke at the dawn service about the significance of the day and of soldiers that made the ultimate sacrifice.

“We are here today to remember this day, 25 April 1915, the landing at Gallipoli,” Mr Brackin said.

“We remember those who gave their life and limbs, both men and women, black or white to ensure that we here today have the freedom we have.

“We also remember the animal that gave their lives to ensure our freedom.”

The dawn service reflects the military tradition of ‘stand to’ at the first light, a time chosen to remember when soldiers were most alert for an attack.

The sound of bagpipes echoed across the landscape, adding a solemn note to the ceremony.

Across the Surf Coast Shire other ceremonies took place.

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

Lorne’s observance started 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.

Former Royal Australian Navy Lieutenant Jess Sullivan reflected on 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.

“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.

“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.”

Echoing the Surf Coast’s efforts, similar services and marches were organised around the country, from small towns to major cities.

Internationally, Australians and New Zealanders also marked the day with ceremonies in significant locations such as Gallipoli in Türkiye and Villers-Bretonneux in France.

Story published April 25, 2024, at 10.24am. Updated April 26, 2024, at 7.20am.