Today, our nation stops to remember all Australians who have lost their lives serving our nation and those who returned bearing the deep physical and mental scars of war. We also acknowledge the sacrifice and resilience of their families.

 

We pay tribute to them all, knowing that no words or honour bestowed can fully express the depth of our gratitude and respect.

 

A century ago this month, as 1914 drew to a close, more than thirty thousand soldiers from every part of Australia and New Zealand, left the shores of Western Australia, beginning a journey that would take them to the fatal shores of Gallipoli, the mud of the Somme and the dust of Beersheba. They would soon be joined by many thousands more in the months and years ahead.

 

From the stern of their transport ships, thousands of volunteers caught their last glimpse of the country and continent that was their home.

 

There, a hundred years ago in King George Sound, Albany, the bond that was soon to become the Anzac legend was born - the bravery and sacrifice of so many that we honour every day, but especially today, 11 November.

 

This is the first Remembrance Day as part of the Centenary of Anzac commemorations, which began on 4 August, 2014 and which will continue until 11 November 2018.

 

Today, and in the weeks, months and years ahead, we declare again that age shall not weary the Anzacs, nor the years condemn.

 

We remember the first Anzacs and the tens of thousands of Australians who have served and died in war since.

 

We shall remember them and honour their sacrifice, always.

 

Lest we forget.

 

 

TUESDAY, 11 NOVEMBER 2014

 

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