Take time to reflect this Anzac Day
Anzac Day and its commemoration is just as important this year as it has ever been.
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While we can't gather together and pay our respects at our local shrines and RSLs, we can still take the time to stop and reflect on the sacrifices that were made some 105 years ago.
Like many across our communities, I will rise before the sun this Anzac Day and at 6am will stand at the end of my driveway for a moment's silence to remember those who fought for us.
I am proud that my great grandfather fought for our country in World War II in the 8th Light Horse Regiment. The fob watch gifted to him by the Apsley community remains a cherished keepsake in the family today as recognition for his contributions in the war.
This isn't the first time that Australians have been unable to gather for Anzac Day ceremonies. In 1919 some towns cancelled Anzac Day ceremonies due to the risks posed by the influenza epidemic. This only tells us that the ceremonies and commemorative events will return next year, as they did in 1920 and as they have for over a century.
On Saturday, we remember those who served, those who lost their lives, those who serve today and the families who support them.
The freedoms we enjoy today as a nation are due to the extraordinary sacrifice of our past generations.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.
Emma Kealy MP, The Nationals Member for Lowan
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Stand in Memory
On Saturday my husband and I will be rising before dawn to stand at the end of our driveway to remember our brave ANZACs, and I would like to invite you to do the same.
Although we cannot gather together as communities, with this simple act of solidarity, we can join together in heart.
In doing so, we can honour those who have served their country, often risking or sacrificing their lives so that we can enjoy our freedom here in Australia.
This year will be one of the few times that commemorative public services will not take place on this day since this tradition began in the early 1920s.
Nevertheless, this day can serve as a reminder of the ANZAC spirit, which has helped guide our nation through the many challenges we have faced together.
I will also be listening to the haunting sounds of the Last Post and watching the solemn ceremony taking place in our nation's capital at the War Memorial on my smartphone.
No, it won't be the same as gathering together in the park and laying a wreath, or watching with pride the cavalcade of our local heroes.
But connecting in spirit will give us the strength to face the challenges of the coming months, and to move beyond our present isolation, so that we may once again share in this important tradition.
Lest we forget. As the sun rises on Saturday morning, we will remember them.
Dr Anne Webster MP, Federal Member for Mallee
#AnzacAtHome
Anzac Day is one of the most important days on our national calendar.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the difficult decision was made to cancel traditional Anzac Day services and marches in the interests of public safety and the health and wellbeing of the community.
While it may look different this year, Anzac Day is not cancelled and there are a range of ways we can all pay our respects.
At 6.00am, you can support the RSL's campaign to #LightUpTheDawn by standing in your driveway and lighting a candle or switching on a torch.
We may need to stay at home but this is a very special way to commemorate the service and sacrifice of all Australians who have fought and died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations over a century of service.
The national dawn service to be held at the Australian War Memorial In Canberra will be broadcast on ABC-TV and ABC radio from 5.30am.
I also encourage people to pause at 11.30am for a minute's silence. This time corresponds with the landing of our troops at Gallipoli 105 years ago.
Please don't forget to share your photos on social media using the hashtags "LightUpTheDawn and #AnzacAtHome.
I sincerely thank our veterans and service men and women who have made, and continue to make, such an important contribution to our nation. Lest we forget.
Sarah Henderson, Liberal Senator for Victoria
How are you standing up this Anzac Day? Tell us your story and share your photos using the form below.