The word ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.

On the 25 April Australians and New Zealanders remember the first major battle fought by Australian and New Zealand forces, at Gallipoli in Turkey, in 1915 during World War 1.
• It was a dreadful battle and it lasted for 8 long months.
• The soldiers fought bravely and many fine young men from both sides lost their lives.
• The living conditions were awful.


The soldiers learnt to depend on each other in order to survive. The Australian ideals of:
• Mateship – always helping your friends,
• Courage – standing up for what is right even if afraid,
• Sacrifice – being prepared to give so others can be better off.
were born at Gallipoli.


They went to Gallipoli because nearly the whole world was at war and they thought that by being brave, standing up for what was right and going to fight they could make the world a better place for generations to come.


On ANZAC Day we remember the courage and sacrifice of all those brave young Australians who went off to fight in far off places - Some of them to never return.


After World War 1 Australian Military Forces have been sent to many places where people have needed our help and protection.


They have been to many wars or have been Peacekeepers in dangerous and far off lands since that first battle on 25th April 1915.


When we remember the ANZACs we also remember all Australian Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Nurses who have been to the war or peacekeeping duties to help make the world a better place.


ANZAC day is not about talking of war and fighting as something fantastic. It is a reminder that war is horrible and while we should be proud of what the ANZAC's and other Australian soldiers have done, we should always remember that there are never any winners in wars.


Today we specially remember the more than 3000 Australians who are overseas in wars and peacekeeping. Many in far off places like:
• Afghanistan,
• Iraq,
• Solomon Islands and
• East Timor


So, don't just think that it is just another holiday, remember that it is a very special day. A special day when all Australians should say 'thank you' to all those men and women who have fought and died to allow you to have your choice in a country that is free.

Lest We Forget