Celebrated annually on the 25th April, Anzac Day is one the most important days on the Australian calendar.
It is a day of commemoration that marks the first major military battle fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. It is a significant occasion across both countries, marking the day as a public holiday.
What does Anzac mean?
Anzac stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
During World War I, the Australian and New Zealand forces were given this nickname, and to this day, soldiers take great pride in bearing the Anzac name.
Why is Anzac Day so important?
Anzac Day is significant as it recognises the sacrifice of the Anzacs who lost their lives during the war and the bravery they showed during this battle.
How is Anzac Day commemorated?
One of the most significant ways to commemorate Anzac Day is by attending a dawn service. Services are held at dawn to commemorate the time at which the Anzacs landed at Gallipoli.
Dawn services include a rendition of 'The Last Post’ on the bugle that signified the end of the day’s activities during the war. It is now played during military funerals and commemorations as a final farewell to fallen soldiers.
Services are often finished with a march featuring current servicemen and servicewomen, former soldiers and their relatives.
Another important way Australians and New Zealanders commemorate Anzac Day is by purchasing and wearing a red poppy.
The red poppy was one of the first flowers to bloom on the battlefields after World War I. It is most often associated with Remembrance Day, but over time it has also become an increasingly popular symbol of Anzac Day.
