Servicemen prepare for the Dawn Service in Martin Place. Photo by Noel Fisher.
Sydney’s main ANZAC commemorations – both the dawn service and the march – always draw huge crowds.
Newsroom photographer Noel Fisher was on hand to record an emotional day that combines pride and celebration with reflection and mourning.
He was struck by the growing numbers of younger veterans, many of them men and women who served in Iraq and Afghanistan who swelled the numbers, proudly celebrating their own service.
“Although many of the young men and women returning from modern conflicts attend the dawn services, few, apart from those currently serving, participate in the march,” Noel said.
“The focus on the centenary of Anzac and battles long past is an important part of our social identity, but our young veterans also need recognition.”
A young veteran at the dawn service in Martin Place.
A younger vet at the dawn service with his children.
A group of young comrades await the dawn service.
The change in route for the Anzac Parade did not seem to affect attendance; crowds three- and four-deep lined Elizabeth Street. A fleet of taxis carried those now too infirm to march. Those who fought and died in the Boer War and World War One were honoured and remembered by symbolic unmounted horses. The veterans themselves are now long gone.
A boy plays his part, proudly waving his flag during the march.
Veterans enjoy their moment in the parade from a taxi.
All generations were able to honour their family and the fallen.
Legends live on at the annual Anzac Parade.
All photos by Noel Fisher for The Newsroom.
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