Rain did not stop crowds from gathering in Sydney for the Anzac Day march through the city's streets, nor did it deter returned soldiers. People holding umbrellas and waving Australian flags created a guard of honour along George Street for veterans taking part in this year's parade.
Earlier, record crowds of close to 10,000 people filled Sydney's Martin Place for the dawn service. The Cenotaph was overflowing with people spilling into surrounding streets. Organisers say no matter how big the crowds get, the event will always be held at the Cenotaph.
The New South Wales president of the Dawn Service Trust, Don Brown, was pleased to see so many young faces among the early morning crowd. He says this year was an important practice run for next year's Anzac centenary service. 'This year we've had the two additional screens put up in George Street there, we hope to have that again next year,' he said.
World War II veteran Dennis Davis took four generations of his family, including his great-grandchildren, to the dawn service. 'Fantastic! Not the first time I've been here, of course,' he said. Wreaths were laid by guests including New South Wales Governor Marie Bashir and Premier Mike Baird.
Many spent the afternoon in pubs and RSL clubs across Sydney to take part in one of Anzac Day's traditional pastimes, a game of two-up. The simple betting game was popularised in the trenches at Gallipoli and is still played by soldiers and punters back home every Anzac Day.
