Thousands attend Anzac Day 2017 National Ceremony

Dr Brendan Nelson, Director of the Australian War Memorial, today said he was proud to see the large crowd braving the elements at today’s Anzac Day National Ceremony.

“An estimated 7000 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,” Dr Nelson said.

“Anzac Day is a time for all Australians to come together to commemorate the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and servicewomen in every theatre of war and on operational service.

“This year marks the centenary of our worst year - we began 1917 in the snow of Bullecourt and finished in the blood soaked slime and mud of the Passchendaele ridge. Of the 76,000 casualties recorded in 1917 more than 38,000 occurred in just eight weeks, during the Third Battle of Ypres.”

Anzac Day is our opportunity to honour not just those who fought and died on Gallipoli, but throughout the tragic years of the First World War and all conflicts since.

“I am pleased so many people chose to experience this important commemorative event at the Australian War Memorial this year.

“Australia and Australians continue to do these men and women proud.”

The National Ceremony Commemorative Address was delivered by the Vice Chief of the Defence Force, Rear Admiral Ray Griggs.

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