Commemorations for Anzac Day 2020 – this Saturday 25 April – will be somewhat different this year thanks to COVID-19 gathering restrictions.
But it’s important – perhaps more than ever – that we still take time to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by Australians in wartime and pay respect to our currently-serving military personnel.
With local Anzac Day services cancelled across the country, Australians are being encouraged to privately commemorate Anzac Day by watching the nationally-televised service to be broadcast by the ABC and streamed online from 5.30am on Saturday from the Australian War Memorial.
The RSL Queensland is also encouraging Queenslanders to “stand at the end of your driveway, or on your balcony or in the paddock” at 6am on Saturday for a minute’s silence to “light up the dawn”.
RSL Queensland President Tony Ferris said the need to cancel traditional ANZAC Day commemorations had been devastating for the veteran community.
“Usually our Sub Branches organise more than 500 services and marches throughout Queensland,” he said.
“Having to call them off at such a late stage in the planning was very disappointing for our Sub Branch volunteers, who put their heart and soul into hosting these events for their local communities.
“But it’s been wonderful to see the Australian public take ownership of ANZAC Day so wholeheartedly.
“People shared so many ideas with us for alternative ways to commemorate ANZAC Day – one that kept coming up, however, was the idea of gathering at the end of our driveways at dawn.
“It’s a great way for us all to show our respect and gratitude for service people, past and present, while remaining safe – and just like ANZAC Day, this is an idea that belongs to the Australian people,” he said.
AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL LIVE…
Acting Australian War Memorial Director Anne Bennie said the Memorial is “committed to providing an opportunity for Australians to commemorate Anzac Day through a televised ceremony”.
“Anzac Day is a symbolic day for Australians and New Zealanders, with the Australian War Memorial being the centre of Australia’s national commemoration,” she said.
“In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that Anzac Day commemorations adhere to government advice on gatherings of large groups.
“The Memorial Council has approved a revised commemorative ceremony format, to be held within the heart of the Memorial.”
President of the ACT Branch of the RSL John King said the League has “an obligation to look after the safety of the veteran and wider communities”.
“In these exceptional circumstances, the RSL feels the course of action decided by the Australian War Memorial is the most appropriate way to mark Anzac Day, with due consideration for public safety,” he said.
“Wreaths will be laid by dignitaries representing the Commonwealth, the people of Australia and New Zealand as well as by senior representatives of current and former veterans.
“Full details are being finalised, however the televised ceremony will retain a number of traditional elements.
“The ceremony will provide an opportunity for Australians to safely pause in their homes, in honour of veterans and the Australian spirit.”
• The Free Times will include a link to the Australian War Memorial service on Anzac Day at www.freetimes.com.au
