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G’day mates! Today, we’re gonna yarn about something real close to the hearts of us Aussies – ANZAC Day. It’s as Aussie as a meat pie at the footy or a snag on the barbie. But why is it such a big deal? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of it all and find out why we keep this tradition alive and kickin’.
What’s ANZAC Day All About?
First off, ANZAC Day, on the 25th of April, marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. On this day back in 1915, our diggers landed at Gallipoli in Turkey to capture the peninsula to open the Dardanelles to the allied navies. The plan was bold as brass, but things didn’t go as planned, and it turned into a tough slog with heavy losses.
Why It’s Fair Dinkum Important
ANZAC Day goes beyond just a date in the history books; it’s a day when we remember the sacrifice of all those who’ve served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. It’s about the spirit of ANZAC, which includes qualities like courage, mateship, and a fair go, things that are core to our Aussie identity.
Keeping the Spirit Alive
We keep the ANZAC spirit alive not just because it’s our history, but because it reminds us of what it means to be Aussie. Mateship, in particular, is something you’ll find all over, from our local pubs to the sports fields. It’s about sticking by your mate when they’re in a sticky wicket. And ANZAC Day brings this into sharp focus.
Dawn Services and the Ode
One of the most poignant parts of ANZAC Day is the Dawn Service. Many of us get up at the crack of dawn to attend these services at war memorials across the country, or even overseas. There’s something dead-set moving about standing in the quiet, early morning light, remembering those who can’t be with us. The service usually includes the laying of wreaths, reading of letters and diaries from diggers, and the haunting bugle call of The Last Post.
After the Dawn Service, there’s often a ‘Gunfire Breakfast’ where you can grab a cuppa and some tucker – traditionally a rum and milk or coffee with rum. It’s a nod to what diggers would have before going into battle.
Two-Up: A Game of Chance
Later in the day, you might find yourself in a pub playing Two-Up, a gambling game played by diggers during WWI. It’s legal only on ANZAC Day, and there’s nothing more Aussie than cheering on a mate as they toss the coins, hoping for heads to come up.
Why Keep the Tradition Going?
Keeping ANZAC Day traditions going is about more than just a nod to history. It’s a day to reflect on the qualities that make us Australian and to recognize the sacrifices that allow us to enjoy the freedoms we have today. It’s a powerful reminder of our past, and it shapes our national identity.
So, whether you’re attending a Dawn Service, playing Two-Up, or simply having a quiet think, ANZAC Day is a time to reflect on what it really means to be Aussie. It’s about not forgetting the past and ensuring future generations understand and carry on the ANZAC spirit. Fair dinkum, it’s a day we need to keep alive.
Lest we forget.
Editor
The Aussie 
