Thousands attend Anzac Day 2019 National Ceremony

Director of the Australian War Memorial Dr Brendan Nelson today said the large crowd in attendance at the Anzac Day National Ceremony speaks to our nation’s respect for those who serve and the families who love them.

The National Ceremony featured a commemorative service and a veterans’ march, as well as a performance by Australian singer/songwriter Fred Smith. The ceremony concluded with a fly-past.

“An estimated 10,000 people attended the National Ceremony and veterans’ march, bringing the total number of people at both Anzac Day ceremonies at the Australian War Memorial to 45,000,” said Dr Nelson.

“Australians from all backgorounds come together on Anzac Day to commemorate the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and servicewomen in every theatre of war and on operational service. Although not said, we recommit ourselves to one another, our nation and the ideals of mankind”.

The National Ceremony Commemorative Address was delivered by His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd), Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia. The moving speech was His Excellency’s last public address at the Memorial in his capacity as Governor-General.

“For those fortunate to hear the address from His Excellency, it will be a day they will surely never forget. His remarkable address was told with clarity, humility, and love for mates with whom he served and his fellow Australians. We are honoured by his presence here today and grateful to him for his years of service to our nation.”

“From Duntroon to Vietnam, to his time as a representative of our Commonwealth, Sir Peter Cosgrove has continued to live a life of value, a life spent in the service of others,” said Dr Nelson. 

The Memorial is open for the remainder of Anzac Day. Dr Nelson urged people to attend the Last Post Ceremony in the Memorial’s Commemorative Area at 4.55 pm.