Five ways to mark this Anzac Day
Anzac Day is traditionally a day of coming together, but of course with social distancing restrictions still in place, as a community we will have to mark this day apart.
Here are five ways you can remember those who have fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice this coming Saturday.
Driveway at dawn tribute
At 0555 hours, aka 5.55am, on Saturday 25 April, people from across Australia will stand at the end of their driveways to observe a minute of silence. This moment of reflection is key to the traditional Anzac dawn service and can be observed by all, safely at home. This social movement has been started by the group Aussies and Kiwis for ANZACS and there is even an accompanying app, featuring a virtual candle and synchronised playing of The Last Post to help guide the tribute.
Horsham Dawn Service broadcast
From 6.30am Horsham RSL will share their own Dawn Service broadcast on 1089 3WM. Horsham RSL Vice President Don Pirouet and guest speaker Mick Harris have come together with 3WM to record this service, ensuring that our local Anzacs are remembered.
Poppies on your post box
The red poppies of Flanders Field are synonymous with Anzac Day as a symbol of remembrance and hope for a peaceful future. Poppies can be made at home with egg cartons, newspapers or crochet. Making poppies together with your loved ones can provide an opportunity for quiet reflection on Anzac Day, and displayed on your post box they also show support to your local service men and women.
Anzac biscuits
Made from ingredients that last a long time, these biscuits are another strong symbol of Anzac Day. Originally these biscuits were sent by loved ones to soldiers serving overseas. Today they are a tasty reminder of the many Australians who have served in wars far away from home. The official Anzac recipes can be found at the Australian War Memorial website.
Tune in to national coverage
There will also be many opportunities to observe Anzac Day online. At 5am, Anzac stories will screen on ABC TV. From 5.30am the National Memorial Service will be broadcast live from the Australian War Memorial. This broadcast will be available on ABC TV, iView and ABC Radio and includes the Last Post and a minute of silence.
Despite COVID-19, together we can still pay our respects this Anzac Day. Lest we forget.