Anzac Day Dawn Service returns to Australian War Memorial Parade Ground

Tens of thousands have gathered for the Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra this morning to commemorate 110 years since the ANZACs first landed at Gallipoli in the pre-dawn darkness on 25 April 1915.

More than 26,000 people were joined by Australian Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, the Hon Barnaby Joyce MP (representing the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Peter Dutton MP) and other dignitaries at the solemn commemoration.

Today marks the first time since 2021 that the Dawn Service has been held on the Parade Ground, which reopened on Anzac Day last year for the RSL (ACT Branch) Veterans’ March. 

Meanwhile, current and former Australian Army signallers are gathering at the Memorial for the Veterans’ March at 9.30 am to mark the 100th anniversary of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs).

The RA Sigs were formed officially in 1925, and have evolved into a group of highly technical specialists who provide communications, electronic warfare and cyber capabilities support for Australian Defence Force (ADF) operations around the world.

“For 100 years, the Royal Australian Corps of Signals have been innovators, starting with radio transmissions in the 1920s though to cutting-edge cyber warfare today,” Director of the Australian War Memorial, Matt Anderson, said.

Although RA Sigs will lead the march, Current and former Australian Defence Force, Commonwealth or Allied force veterans, along with their relatives, are eligible to march, even if they are not part of a formal group or association.

ACT RSL CEO Kimberley Hicks said the march provides a unique opportunity for veterans and their families to honour military service.

“Marching on Anzac Day is a tribute to those who served and sacrificed,” Ms Hicks said.

The Veterans’ March will commence at 9.30 am on the Parade Ground of the Australian War Memorial, followed by the National Commemorative Service and an address delivered by Major Angela Uphill, a physiotherapist from the 2nd Health Brigade.

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