Defiant and grateful Victorians are expected to pay respects in record numbers on Anzac Day as a sign of unity in the wake of a foiled terror plot.
Huge crowds are expected to brave chilly dawn services around the state to mark the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing, and the parades that follow, amid an unprecedented police presence.
Victoria Police reassured people on Friday that there was no specific terror threat for Anzac Day, following news a teenager in the UK was charged with inciting a beheading in Australia.
The British boy's charges followed counter-terrorism raids in Melbourne last weekend in which five young men were arrested over an alleged Islamic State-inspired terror plot aimed at the Anzac parade.
Police say the Melbourne men were in contact with the British boy, who's been charged with two offences of inciting terrorism overseas.
Premier Daniel Andrews, who has been in detailed briefings with police, said the huge crowds would be a sign of unity.
"There could be no stronger statement of respect, and gratitude, and indeed a stronger sign of unity in light of recent events, than if we were to have every record put to one side," Mr Andrews said.
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Lucinda Nolan says police are prepared for every contingency, including traffic, crowd, security and crime issues.
There will be a "very, very visible uniform police presence" at services around the state, as well as an unseen security presence.
"We know the recent events from last weekend may have caused some people to be a little bit apprehensive," Ms Nolan told reporters on Friday.
Up to 100,000 people are expected at the Shrine of Remembrance for the dawn service.
Following this, thousands will march down St Kilda Road towards the shrine in time for a commemorative service, including veterans, their descendants and current serving personnel.
A crowd of around 90,000 is anticipated for the AFL match between Essendon and Collingwood at the MCG later on Saturday.
VICTORIA and WWI
- About 112,000 Victorians enlisted for service.
- Of these, about 19,000 were killed in action or died of wounds.
- About 138 members of Victoria Police fought in WWI and 27 of them died, including three at Gallipoli.
- Twenty-six Victorians received the Victoria Cross.
MAJOR ANZAC DAY EVENTS
- Dawn Service: 6am, the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne.
- Official wreath laying: 8.15am, Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne.
- Anzac Day march: 9am, St Kilda Rd, Melbourne.
- Annual Anzac Day AFL match: From about 1.30pm, MCG, Melbourne.
- More than 250,000 hand-knitted poppies have formed a field at Federation Square.
(Source: anzaccentenary.vic.gov.au)
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