Tens of thousands rise to remember Anzac centenary

Tens of thousands packed into Sydney's Martin Place and other sites across Australia and New Zealand for Anzac centenary dawn services.

Thousands of people commemorate Anzac Day dawn

Thousands of people turned out to commemorate the Anzac Day dawn service in Sydney, Saturday, April 25, 2015.

Tens of thousands of people have filled Martin Place in Sydney for the Anzac centenary dawn service.

Premier Mike Baird, NSW Governor David Hurley and other dignitaries, including federal Social Services Minister Scott Morrison, joined the 30,000-strong crowd.

The governor said the Anzac spirit had three elements: it is defined by Australians who give a job their best shot, do it proudly and look after their mates, even when the job is done.

"When we do the job we will do it in a manner in which you will be proud," he said.

"Now, the challenge is to continue the spirit and legacy with a renewed vigour."

Hymns filled the air before Mr Baird read the Dedication.

"We feel them still near us in spirit," he said.

The premier laid a wreath and bowed his head at the cenotaph to begin the floral tributes from politicians, servicemen and women, NSW Police and more.

As the last post was sounded, a sea of solemn men, women and children bowed their heads and took a minute of silence to pay their respects.

"Lest we forget," said those gathered.

Brett Smith, 49, brought his partner and children to "remember the past and think of the future", including his uncle who fought in World War One.

"I hope (my son) never has to do what my uncle did," he said.

Hymns filled the air before Mr Baird read the Dedication.

"We feel them still near us in spirit," he said.

The premier laid a wreath and bowed his head at the cenotaph to begin the floral tributes from politicians, servicemen and women, NSW Police and more.

As the last post was sounded, a sea of solemn men, women and children bowed their heads and took a minute of silence to pay their respects.

"Lest we forget," said those gathered.

Other Anzac Day ceremonies have been held around Australia and in New Zealand.
Thousands of New Zealanders have attended an Anzac centenary dawn service in Wellington before carrying on the tradition of sharing a cup of tea and an Anzac biscuit.

People young and old flocked to the capital's new Pukeahu National War Memorial on Saturday for the service.

Governor-General Sir Jerry Mateparae said April 25 was a day for New Zealand and Australia to pause and reflect.

The ceremony was also attended by Australian Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, acting Prime Minister Bill English, Turkish ambassador Damla Yesim Say and Victoria Cross recipient Willie Apiata.

Sir Peter said commemorations in Australia and New Zealand marking a century since the Gallipoli landings were testament to the enduring friendship the original Anzacs had forged.

"That bond continues to bind our nations together," he said.

"Today we stand side by side, from this dawn to dusk in New Zealand, Australia, and Turkey."

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Source: AAP

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