Lest we forget

Published on 24 April 2025

Men in military uniform stand together during an ANZAC Day commemoration, reflecting on their service and remembrance.

Tomorrow, the nation pauses to honour Anzac Day, one of Australia’s most significant national days, recognising all Australian and New Zealand Army corps who serve or have served in war and peacekeeping missions.

This year marks the 110th year since Australian and New Zealand forces landed on what became known as Anzac Cove on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Türkiye in 1915.

It was the first major military action fought by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps and the event that led to the term “Anzacs” for our soldiers. Almost 11,500 died in that battle alone. We will never forget them.

This month also marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, where Australian and Vietnamese soldiers served alongside each other. To commemorate this, Council has installed special banners across the City and at the entry to Dutton Plaza carpark.

Between 1962 and 1975, about 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam, with over 500 killed and 3,000 injured. In 1975, Australian forces also helped evacuate Vietnamese citizens and support humanitarian efforts.

Tomorrow, Australians will gather at RSL clubs, memorials and public spaces to remember all Anzacs who served in war and peacekeeping missions, including more than 100,000 who lost their lives.

We are deeply grateful to those who have defended our nation, values and freedoms over the past century. Anzac Day brings our communities together in remembrance of their sacrifice.

My fellow Councillors and I will be laying wreaths in their honour—please join us at any of the following services:

  • Smithfield RSL, McCarthy Memorial Park, 5am
  • Fairfield RSL, 5.25am
  • Cabra-Vale Diggers, Cabra Vale Memorial Park, 6am
  • Canley Heights RSL, 7.15am
  • Mounties, 11am

Lest we forget.

 

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