Council video honours Anzac veterans

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

To pay tribute to all the brave men and women who served our country, council has produced a special Anzac Day video featuring local residents honouring our war heroes.

Mayor Greg Williamson encouraged residents to take the time to remember veterans from the safety of their own home this year.

“Anzac Day is a time when we reflect on those Australians whose lot it was in life to be called upon 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.

“This year I encourage all residents to pause and pay respect to our veterans in a non-traditional way, whether it be taking a minute’s silence at your letter box at 6am, watching council’s Anzac Day commemorative video with your family, or baking some Anzac biscuits.”

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

Residents are invited to observe a one-minute silence following The Last Post.

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

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

Alternatively, visit www.connectingmackay.com.au/anzac-day-2020 and share a story about a veteran in your family or post a photo or video about how you will be recognising Anzac Day this year.