ON APRIL 25, 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers huddled together silently in their row boats as they approached the beaches and hills of Gallipoli. Although they were young and afraid, they prepared to battle with an unseen enemy to protect the rest of us.

Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and this Anzac Day, across the region and despite the inclement weather, thousands of people ensured that the Anzac memory lives on.

Some 111 years later, the Anzac spirit is as strong as ever and community members, dignitaries, service personnel, both past and present and school children took part in commemorative services held across the region on Saturday, April 25.

Anzac Day honours the memory of the 103,000 Australians who have given their life in our country’s name.

Approximately 1,250 Australian Defence Force personnel are currently deployed on operations across Australia, the Indo-Pacific region and the globe. These deployments are an example of the continuing Anzac spirit while serving Australia’s national interests.

On Anzac Day, we reflect on the tremendous sacrifices our current and former serving personnel and their families have and continue to make, so that our nation and its people can enjoy freedom and safety today.

Lest We Forget.