Finding new ways to commemorate Anzac Day

Traditionally a time to join with family and friends at Dawn Services in our local communities, this year’s Anzac Day will be unlike any other we have commemorated.

As we find ourselves in the midst of a pandemic, annual ceremonies around the country (including the City of South Perth's Anzac Day service) have been cancelled to ensure the safety of the community and to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

Whilst we will not be physically gathering together this year, we can find new ways to commemorate Anzac Day and most importantly, we can still honour our fallen, as well as those who served and still serve today.

We will be delving into the City’s fascinating Local History Collection and sharing stories of some of our local Anzac veterans via our website and social media.

These recollections and the images that accompany them, tell of the spirit of the Anzacs – their endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, and mateship. Their stories reveal the selflessness of everyday Western Australians who were called upon to serve their country in extraordinary circumstances.

In these unsettling and challenging times, it is perhaps more important than ever to pause as a nation, to collectively reflect upon the extraordinary sacrifices made by our servicemen and servicewomen and draw strength from their incredible resilience and courage.

We hope that sharing these Anzac stories helps our community to commemorate this important national day of remembrance.

To find out more visit the Anzac History page of the City's website.

How you can be involved

• RSLWA is encouraging all Aussies to get creative in a show of mateship this ANZAC Day – by standing in quiet contemplation at the end of their driveways, or on their balconies, at 6am on 25 April. RSLWA are also asking people to post Anzac tributes to their Facebook and Instagram pages. For details, visit the RSLWA website.
• A nationally televised private Anzac Day service held at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra will be broadcast live by the ABC and streamed online. Visit the Australian War Memorial's website for details.