Anzac Day has gone digital

Anzac Day services across the country have been cancelled in line with the Australian Government’s COVID-19 public health directive relating to public gatherings.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council would share a special Anzac Day video on social media as our region’s Anzac Day commemoration.

“While we will be marking Anzac Day in a very different way this year, it is important to remember the reason Australians regard this as one of our most important
national days,” Cr Williamson said.

“Anzac Day is a time when we reflect on those Australians whose lot it was in life to be called on to take up arms in defence of this nation and our values,” he said.

“It is a day when we collectively say thank you to the men and women who have served and are serving this nation in our Defence Force.

“It is a day when we remember the 102,888 Australians who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“We were looking forward to having a local icon, Victoria Cross recipient Keith Payne VC AM, as a special guest at this year’s Mackay ceremony for the first time.

“While it’s unfortunate we won’t be able to do that now, Keith was kind enough to film a short message for our video.

“It would be great to have Mackay region families participate in this very different Anzac Day by gathering together in their homes to watch the video.”

Council’s commemorative Anzac Day video will feature an address from the Mayor and Keith Payne VC AM, a short prayer, the Australian and New Zealand national anthem performed by Navy cadet Natan Gooch, The Last Post and one-minute’s silence.

Please join us on Saturday, April 25, at 9.30am on council’s Facebook page or YouTube channel.

Local radio station, ABC Tropical North, will also be broadcasting an audio version of the clip at 9.30am.