Today community members, veterans and school children gathered at Stenhouse Park to commemorate ANZAC Day and honour those who have served past and present.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said the Stenhouse Park Memorial Service, held the day before the official ANZAC Day ceremonies, gave local school children the opportunity to reflect on the importance of the Stenhouse Park monument, which was funded by local workers who had no choice but to stay home while others went to war.
"The Memorial Service today was a special one with all those in attendance clearly committed to honouring those who served and sacrificed for our nation, and those still serving today," Mayor Williams said.
"Across our region there are many official services and marches being held tomorrow for our community members to attend and pay their respects.
"I encourage everyone to attend one of the many services and help keep the ANZAC spirit alive, particularly as we mark the 110th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli in 2025."
Divisional Councillor Grant Mathers said the ANZAC Day Memorial Service held at Stenhouse Park each year is an important one.
"I am so thankful to be able to be part of this annual Memorial Service and pay my respects to those who have chosen to serve our country," Cr Mathers said.
"Offering this service the day before official ANZAC commemorations has become a tradition for the community and local schools.
"Today we saw Berserker Street State School, Mount Archer State School, Frenchville State School, St Mary's Catholic Primary School and Kingsley College attend.
"To take the time to attend an ANZAC service shows the value our community places on keeping the ANZAC spirit alive and it is a wonderful way to honour our ANZACs.
"I hope our community can attend a commemorative service or march tomorrow and take some time to pay their respects."
A full list of services and marches can be viewed here: https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/CommunityEvents/Events-Activities/ANZAC-Day-2025
