Wednesday, 3 May 2023

Anzac Day

Chris COUZENS (Geelong) (09:48): It was an honour to attend the various remembrance services on Anzac Day alongside the member for Corio, Minister for Defence and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and the member for South Barwon. I want to acknowledge the RSL and Andrew Hanns for their great organisation. The day started with the Anzac pre-dawn service at the peace memorial in Johnstone Park at 4:15 am. There is something really special and solemn about remembering Australians who have died or been injured in war at this memorial built in the 1920s to commemorate those who served in World War I.

The dawn service at 6 am at Eastern Beach continues to attract large numbers, as it did again this Anzac Day. It is great to see so many people attending to remember and honour those who have fallen or suffered in war. I attended the 9:30 service at the Geelong RSL in Belmont, followed by the march along Malop Street for the 11 am service in Johnstone Park. This also attracted huge numbers of people. South Barwon and St Joseph’s football and netball clubs hosted their annual Anzac pre-match service at 1:30 pm prior to their senior football and netball games at McDonald Reserve. This is a special day to thank, honour and remember those who have served in war and to commit to a wish for peace in our world.