The original ANZACs forged the Anzac spirit of service and mateship in World War One on the shores of Gallipoli.
Since that time, hundreds of thousands of Australians have served our country across dozens of conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
On Anzac Day we reflect on the service of veterans, many of whom made the supreme sacrifice far too young. We also honour the more than 80,000 Australians who are currently serving our country in the Australian Defence Force, either full-time or as reservists.
This Anzac Day marks the first since we lost two remarkable young men who grew up in our area – Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent and Warrant Officer Class Two Joseph Laycock, who died tragically during a training exercise in July last year, alongside two of their fellow servicemen.
Those young men died serving our country. They did so as men who were duty-driven, noble-minded, and brave. They will be remembered not just for their sacrifice, but for who they were – bright, warm, talented, family-minded young men.
When I pause for a moment of silence on Anzac Day, I will be keeping Lt Maxwell Nugent and WO2 Joseph Laycock, and their families in my thoughts. I hope that you will do the same.
I strongly encourage you and your family to attend one of the Anzac Day services which will be held across our community on 25th April.
It is an important opportunity to pay tribute to current serving members, veterans, those who have since passed away, and their families. Lest we forget.
