Red poppies adorned the Sydney Opera House and lit up Sydney Harbour this morning as the sun rose to mark the commencement of Remembrance Day.
Minister for Veterans David Harris hosted proceedings at the special sunrise service on the harbour. The RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge recited the Ode before the Last Post rang out as a reminder of the importance of the day.
Large crowds are expected to gather at the state's Remembrance Day service at the Cenotaph in Sydney's Martin Place at 10:30am, as well as local memorials throughout our communities to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia's service personnel.
Today marks 106 years since the Armistice was signed, that brought an end to fighting in the First World War. Over 416,000 Australians enlisted for service during the Great War, out of a population of only 4 million. Many more defence personnel have fought in conflicts and peacekeeping operations since.
For more than a century, red poppies have been used as a symbol of community respect and recognition. Poppies have been projected onto the Opera House since 2014 and will light up the shells once again at 8pm tonight.
Schools across NSW received a resource pack from the NSW Office for Veterans Affairs with activities to educate the next generation on why Australians commemorate Remembrance Day each year.
Premier Chris Minns said:
"This Remembrance Day is an opportunity to reflect on those who bravely laid down their own lives to defend our country and preserve our way of life.
"It is important to acknowledge those who continue to serve in our defence, at home and abroad. There is no higher public service than offering your own life to protect your country.
"It is also crucial to recognise those who have lost a parent, child or family member in the defence our country.
"Australia's free and democratic society is built upon the shoulders of these brave service personnel we are commemorating today.
"Lest we forget."
Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
"Today we remember those who have given their lives and served their country in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions, and we also acknowledge the support of their families.
"We wear poppies on Remembrance Day to serve as a reminder for people here, and around the world, to take a moment and pause and remember our service men and women.
"I encourage everyone to observe the minute's silence at 11am and remember those who have fought for our country. We owe them an immeasurable debt of gratitude for helping to make Australia the prosperous and free country it is today."
RSL NSW President Mick Bainbridge said:
"This Remembrance Day, we not only honour and remember all those who have died or suffered for Australia's cause in all wars and conflicts, we also continue to reflect on the ongoing impact of military service on our veterans and their families.
"Following the conclusion of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, ex-service organisations now face 122 critical recommendations and RSL NSW will advocate for the implementation of these recommendations to support veterans across Australia.
"We must turn remembrance into action, ensuring every veteran across all generations feels supported, heard, and valued."
