Ipswich residents are being encouraged to honour the service of our defence forces and commemorate Anzac Day from their driveways this year, as all dawn services and marches are called off to stop the spread of COVID-19.
People are being asked to light a candle and unite in the Anzac spirit from a safe distance on their driveways or balconies for the national ‘Light up the Dawn’ event at 6am on April 25.
Ipswich RSL Sub Branch president Rob Wadley said it was a great way to honour our defence forces.
“We know we can’t commemorate Anzac Day as we normally would this year, but this is a lovely way for the community to maintain that connection and recognise the sacrifices our servicemen have made,” Mr Wadley said.
“All Anzac Day commemorations and gatherings are cancelled, but it’s being done for all the right reasons.
“It’s to protect our veterans and the entire Ipswich community.”
Mr Wadley said the flag would be lowered at the Ipswich RSL Sub Branch and The Last Post would be played over the PA system.
But there will be no dawn service, wreath laying service or Anzac March through Ipswich.
Mr Wadley said everyone must stay home to do their bit to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
“Don’t come here to pay your respects, do it from your home,” Mr Wadley said.
“The majority of our members at the Ipswich RSL Sub Branch are high risk due to their age, so it’s important that we mark Anzac Day differently this year to make sure we don’t put anyone’s health at risk.”
The National Commemorative Service will be broadcast on ABC from 5.30am on TV, radio and streamed online on ABC’s YouTube channel.
RSL Queensland will also stream a short commemorative service online, including The Ode, The Last Post, a minute’s silence, and the national anthem.
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