Thousands of locals have gathered at Memory Park in Penrith for the traditional ANZAC Day Dawn Service.
A Dawn Service was also held at St Marys, with large numbers in attendance.
Penrith RSL Sub-Branch Vice President Tim Badger hosted the emotional service at Memory Park.
The service started with the Mounting of the Catafalque Party, and an opening prayer from Reverend Rod Bailey.
Floral tributes were laid by a host of representatives from the local community including State Penrith MP Karen McKeown, Federal Senator Marise Payne, Deputy Mayor Todd Carney and Councillor Ross Fowler.
The New Zealand and Australian National Anthems were both performed, alongside a stirring version of ‘The Last Post’.
ANZAC services will continue throughout the day across the country.
NSW Minister for Veterans David Harris acknowledged that ANZAC Day is a time to come together and pay tribute to the Anzacs who served in World War One, and all the brave servicemen and servicewomen who have since followed in their footsteps.
“Anzac Day gives the community an opportunity to pay their respects to those who have served our country. I attended the Dawn Service in Martin Place this morning for the first time as the Minister for Veterans and it was heartening to see the large crowd honouring the Anzac spirit and paying tribute to the service and sacrifice of our veterans,” Harris said.
At 9am, over 7,000 current serving members and veterans, some serving as far back as the Second World War, will begin their March from Martin Place to the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park Sydney. Spectators will once again line Elizabeth Street in Sydney to honour all Australians who have served.
“If you cannot make it into the Sydney CBD, you can watch the march on ABC TV or attend a local service. I encourage all of NSW to attend a commemorative service, dawn service or march,” Harris added.
Troy Dodds
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.