ANZAC Day: A sacred day of national significance

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM emphasised the profound significance ANZAC Day holds within the hearts and minds of Australians and New Zealanders. 

“ANZAC Day holds a sacred place in our national story. It is a day of profound significance, where we pause to honour the courage, sacrifice and service of those who have defended our freedoms. We reflect with gratitude and uphold the sanctity of their legacy,” MAJGEN Day said. 

“As one of the most important days on the commemorative calendar, ANZAC Day is a day to honour the bravery displayed on the shores of Gallipoli more than 110 years ago and the remarkable contribution made by those who have followed in their footsteps. 

“It’s more than a public holiday – it’s a sacred day of national significance. 

“A public holiday day in lieu on the Monday is not an agenda RSL Queensland is promoting, our focus is, and always will be, on honouring the service and sacrifice of all who served and the enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit.

“We simply want to ensure that Queenslanders understand the many ways in which they can commemorate on 25 April, whether that be joining a Dawn or mid-morning Service at their local RSL Sub Branch, attending ANZAC Day marches in cities across the state or pausing in quiet reflection at home.” 

While ANZAC Day began to recognise those who served in WWI, it’s grown to mean much more. It’s a call to carry the immutable values of the ANZAC spirit – courage, sacrifice and mateship – every day. It’s also an important reminder of just how lucky and grateful we are.