Written by Tess Peel
ANZAC Day isn’t just about reflection but taking a moment to understand what was endured and why it still matters.
The Port Macquarie SRC provided free buses into town for both the Dawn and 10am services. It was great to see both buses so full!
The 5:30am Dawn Service was beautiful! Being held at Town Square, the Port Macquarie community gathered around the War Memorial that was dedicated in 1921, to honour those brave men and women who served and sacrificed their lives during World War I. Additional plaques for other conflicts have been added over time. It poured down rain, just like every other year and of course, the poor uni students were the only ones without an umbrella – hoodies up, saturated. But it was worth it.
It just feels so special once you’re in the crowd. The silence of hundreds of people feels different for everyone. Some feel proud, or sad. But as the sun comes up, there is a sense of unity between everyone sharing the silence together.
Throughout the Dawn Service, including the Last Post, the Ode of Remembrance, a minute of silence, and prayers for everyone involved, the community paid their respects and reflected on the historical sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Troops.
Before uni, I only used to go to the 10am service, but after being at uni, the culture and camaraderie, especially in my friend group, has become attending the Dawn Service every year. It’s one day a year when we all get up early together, which is so special and shows how important the day is to all of us.
At the wreath-laying, Head Res Leaders Ben and Bella were chosen as they are our leaders who unite the rest of us Resident Leaders and students together. They laid a beautifully arranged wreath with orange flowers to represent the Port Macquarie Res Life Campus.
After the service, the Resident Leaders came back to campus to cook a pancake breakfast for all students who attended the Dawn Service. Of course, we had to have ANZAC biccys too, which everyone loved! A lot of time and effort from the Resident Leaders went into trying to make the day a memorable one in many ways.
Naps were essential for some. After cooking pancakes, I started getting ready for the biggest two-up at Tacking Point Tavern (pub). A piece of advice, always go heads, and don’t bet against the veterans, they will always win. Not that you should take my two-up advice anyway. It was great to see a lot of uni students demonstrating why the 25th of April is so important for everyone and how it creates a sense of community.
I will continue to commemorate ANZAC Day by attending the Dawn Service, as my uni experience has shown me the importance of honouring and respecting those who served and sacrificed for our country.
Charlie blog is a SSAF initiative.
