Thousands of people have turned out to pay their respects at Penrith’s Dawn Service held at Memory Park this morning.
The solemn service got underway just before 5am.
Vice President of the Penrith RSL Sub-Branch, Peter Todd, delivered the opening prayer as well as the Prayer of Remembrance.
Captain Terry Morrison from the Royal Australian Navy delivered the Commemorative Address, before a Wreath Laying Ceremony allowed politicians and community representatives to pay their respects to those who served Australia and its allies.
The emotional sound of ‘The Last Post’, played by Craig McGown, broke through the crisp morning air at Memory Park.
Nicki Gillis performed the Australian National Anthem while the New Zealand Anthem was also played.
As the service ended, huge crowds began to build at Penrith RSL Club where commemorations will continue throughout the day.
The turnout was also strong at the Dawn Service held at St Marys RSL.
Another service is to be held at the Penrith Bowling Club at 9am.
The solemn tributes of the morning will make way for celebrations later today with two-up being played at a number of venues across Penrith.
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.
