Today our nation pauses to honour the service men and women who fought so bravely to defend our freedom more than 100 years ago.
Anzac Day holds a special place in the hearts of so many Australians and New Zealanders.
While it is a day to commemorate the Gallipoli landings in 1915, and the horrific campaign that followed, it is also a powerful reminder of our history, values and resilience.
It speaks to the courage, sacrifice and enduring spirit of those who have served – and continue to serve – our nation in times of war, conflict and peacekeeping.
For many Australians, Anzac Day is a time for quiet reflection, for teaching younger generations the meaning of service and for coming together to remember those who gave so much for the freedoms we enjoy today.
By remembering the past, we better understand who we are today and who we want to be tomorrow, so whether you attend a dawn service, lay a wreath, or observe a moment of silence, our continued participation in Anzac Day events and activities helps keep the Anzac spirit alive.
As a specialist reserve serviceman myself, today is a uniquely poignant occasion.
My council colleagues, councillor Rowan Story and councillor Chris Burson, have each served their nation as well, and I know how much this day means to them and fellow veterans.
This morning, I will attend several Anzac Day services in central Geelong, including the pre-dawn service at Johnstone Park, the Eastern Beach Dawn Service and the Geelong RSL march and main service.
At these events we will hear of the impact service has, and how the effects of service do not end when the conflict is over.
Many veterans carry the physical and emotional toll of their experiences throughout their lives and as a community we have a responsibility to support them and their families, not only on Anzac Day, but every day.
I encourage everyone to take time to listen to their stories, donate to veteran support organisations and advocate for better care and resources.
The Anzac legend was forged in adversity, through acts of bravery and mateship on the battlefields. But its legacy continues far beyond the trenches of Gallipoli or the fields of Europe.
It lives on in the values we strive to uphold – courage, endurance, loyalty and a deep sense of community.
Lest we forget.
