They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Taken from the poem,
"For the Fallen", the ode used on Anzac Day is no doubt familiar to all Australians.
Originally a commemoration of the failed landings at Gallipoli during the First World War, Anzac Day is today a chance to commemorate the efforts of all Australians who have risked
their lives in the defence of the nation.
Two major forms of commemorative activity take place on Anzac Day: the Dawn Service and the Anzac Day March. The Dawn Service will be held at 4:28am at the Shrine of Remembrance, Anzac Square, Ann Street, Brisbane. The Dawn Service is a solemn period of reflection and an opportunity to consider the bravery of the young men of Anzac Cove as they readied themselves for battle in the half light of a new day. Many suburbs will also hold Dawn Services and details can be obtained from the
RSL's website.
A more upbeat opportunity to give thanks to the defence forces and wave the flag proudly comes later on Anzac Day with the Anzac Day March starting at 10am at the corner of George and Adelaide Streets, Brisbane. From here the parade will travel along Adelaide Street, turn right into Creek Street and right again onto Elizabeth Street (the end point of the parade). Good vantage spots for the parade will include King George Square, Anzac Square and Post Office Square. The
RSL's website has details for Anzac Day marches that are being held in suburban areas.
Come in spinner! A fun way to commemorate the spirit of the Anzacs is by having a game or two of two-up, a gambling game played by Diggers during the First World War. Anzac Day is the only day that it is legal to play two-up in RSL clubs and hotels in Australia. For people who have never played two-up,
Wikipedia has a good explanation of how to play.
Can't get to a Dawn Service or march? Another way to commemorate Anzac Day is to host a celebration of the lifestyle we have as a result of the brave men and women of our defence forces by inviting your mates to a barbecue. Hold your own minute's silence and instead of BYO alcohol, create some donation boxes and ask your mates to give a donation to the RSL.
If you are planning to attend the Dawn Service and/or Anzac Day March in Brisbane, the best option may be to use public transport. Additional services will be operating to take patrons to both the Dawn Service and the Anzac Day March and
Translink has full details. Road closures in the CBD will come into affect from 7am on Anzac Day. Veterans in uniform or wearing service medals and their spouses may travel on public transport for free on Anzac Day.
