Thousands Expected at Perth Anzac Day Services to Honour Veterans
More than one hundred Anzac Day commemorative services will take place across Western Australia this Saturday, marking 111 years since the historic Gallipoli landing. These events provide local communities with a vital opportunity to pay their respects to the men and women who have served and sacrificed in conflicts, wars, and peacekeeping missions throughout history.
Major Events in Perth's City Centre
In the City of Perth, a series of significant events are planned, including an all-abilities sunset service, the iconic Kings Park dawn service, an Anzac Day march through the central business district, a cathedral service, and a traditional gunfire breakfast at the Government House gardens. The Kings Park dawn service is anticipated to draw a massive crowd, with over 25,000 people expected to attend.
Brigadier Damian Bushell from the Australian Army will deliver the commemorative address at the dawn service, while Wing Commander Michael Moroney from the Royal Australian Air Force will speak at the park's sunset service. These addresses aim to reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of service personnel.
Community Gatherings in Perth's North
In Perth's northern suburbs, the City of Joondalup is inviting residents to attend one of the region's largest dawn services at the Central Park cenotaph. This ceremony will unite the community in remembrance and gratitude, featuring a wreath-laying service, the observance of one minute's silence, and the playing of the Last Post.
Joondalup Mayor Daniel Kingston emphasised the importance of the day, stating it is "a moment for all of us to pause and reflect on the extraordinary bravery, sacrifice and resilience of those who have served our nation." He added, "This annual event is a powerful reminder of the values that bind us – courage, mateship and a deep sense of community."
Similarly, City of Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken highlighted that Anzac Day offers a crucial opportunity for community reflection. "Anzac Day is one of the most significant days on our national calendar, as we honour those brave Australian and New Zealand Forces who served at Gallipoli and all those who have served our country since," she said.
Key Service Locations Across Perth
Residents are encouraged to attend dawn services to pay their respects to current and former Defence Force members. Below is a list of notable ceremonies across Perth:
- Joondalup: Dawn service at Central Park War Memorial, starting at 5.45am.
- Kings Park: Dawn service with over 25,000 expected attendees.
- Wanneroo: Dawn service at Memorial Park, starting at 5.45am.
- Bayswater: Dawn service at Halliday Park War Memorial, starting at 6am.
- Rockingham: Dawn service at Flinders Lane, starting at 5.30am.
Additional services are scheduled in suburbs such as Mt Lawley, North Beach, Ocean Reef, Osborne Park, Quinns Rocks, Stirling, Yanchep, Bassendean, Belmont, Vincent, Victoria Park, South Perth, Armadale, Bicton, Cockburn, and Mandurah, each offering unique commemorative activities like marches and gunfire breakfasts.
For a comprehensive list of all Anzac Day services across Perth, visitors are advised to check the RSL WA website for detailed information and updates.
