Lest We Forget – Anzac Day 2023

25 April is the national day of commemoration of Australia and New Zealand for victims of war and for recognition of the role of their armed forces. It marks the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.

The 25th of April was the day when Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (known as ANZACs) landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915 to set out and capture the peninsula in order to open the Dardanelles to the Allied Navies. This campaign was a disaster with more than 11,000 casualties and 25,500 wounded.

However, the bravery, endurance, and camaraderie shown by the ANZACs are not in doubt. The values and strong character of these young soldiers even in the face of adversity have been attributed to shaping both the Australian and New Zealand national identities, and the campaign is considered a defining moment for the countries.

One year later, on 25 April 1916, the first anniversary of the landing was observed in Australia, New Zealand and England and by troops in Egypt. That year, 25 April was officially named ‘Anzac Day’ by the Acting Australian Prime Minister, George Pearce.

Today we speak of an ‘Anzac tradition’, meaning the ideals of courage, endurance and mateship that are still relevant to this day.

To enable the community to attend and pay their respects and honour the service and sacrifices of all Service Men and Women and their families the Rainbow Beach RSL Sub-Branch will be conducting the following Ceremonies:

0530hrs – Dawn Service at the Cenotaph followed by a Gunfire Breakfast at the Surf Club

0945hrs – Form up for the Street March on the Centre Block followed by the Citizens Commemoration of Anzac Day.

Greg Walker

Rainbow Beach RSL Sub-Branch