Anzac sacrifice remembered

Former Australian Defence Force chief Sir Angus Houston led a poignant tribute to past and present soldiers at the Anzac Day Broome service on Monday.

Sir Angus was a guest speaker at this year’s service, hosted by the Broome RSL, which marked the 101st anniversary of the Gallipoli landing.

Thousands rose early and converged on Bedford Park to pay their respects, with young and old standing shoulder to shoulder.

During the ceremony, Sir Angus addressed the crowd and paid tribute to the servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“For us today, it’s hard to comprehend the scale of the losses and the effect those losses had on families and communities all around Australia,” he said.

“The original Anzacs helped create our nation, our values and our character. They showed courage, commitment, selflessness, endurance, teamwork and mateship.

“They demonstrated the highest level of commitment to their respective nations and in doing so, left an enduring legacy — the Anzac tradition. We must never forget their sacrifice, nor that of their families.”

Broome Anglican Church Minister Michael Baines also paid his respects in a moving address followed by a prayer, while community representatives laid wreaths.

The service concluded with a special performance from St Mary’s College dance and drama students.

Broome RSL president Stuart Simpson said organisers were “very humbled” by the calibre of speakers and the Broome community who turned out to show support.

Crowds flocked to the RSL after the service for the gunfire breakfast.