As ANZAC Day approaches, communities across Australia are preparing to honor the brave men and women who fought for the nation’s freedom. This year, on April 25, 2025, thousands are expected to gather at various commemorative services, including exciting flypasts by vintage military aircraft in the Bundaberg Region and heartfelt remembrances in Moreton Bay.
In Bundaberg, local pilot Pete Marris will take to the skies in his Yak-52 aircraft, part of a formation organized by the Queensland Warbirds Vintage Aircraft Association. Marris expressed his pride in participating, stating, “This year, Anzac Day flypast in the Bundaberg region is being provided by the Queensland Warbirds Vintage Aircraft Association with the formation of three Yak-52 aircraft.” He mentioned that there would be a minimum of three aircraft in the flypast, though they might be able to include four, depending on conditions.
“This will be the first flypast I’ve done on Anzac Day so this will be a nice way to commemorate that for me,” Marris added, reflecting on the significance of the day. The flypast will be featured at various dawn services across the region, including locations such as Woodgate Beach, Bargara, and Bundaberg Civic Service.
As a former Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) pilot, Marris has a deep appreciation for the history and honor associated with ANZAC Day. He explained, “It’s that day of the year where we commemorate and acknowledge and pay our respects for all those before us, that paid the ultimate sacrifice.” His passion for flying, particularly in vintage aircraft, stems from their hands-on nature, as he described, “You’re a part of the machine and you’re flying it.”
Meanwhile, in Moreton Bay, the spirit of ANZAC Day will resonate through numerous services and marches. The day marks the anniversary of the Gallipoli landings in 1915, a pivotal moment in Australian history. Thousands of Australians and New Zealanders landed on the shores of Gallipoli, facing fierce opposition. Their courage and camaraderie have since been celebrated as the ANZAC spirit.
On April 25, 2025, services will commence early in the morning across the region. For instance, the Beachmere march will begin at 6:40 a.m. from the Uniting Church, proceeding to Clayton Park for a service at 7 a.m. Similarly, the Bray Park-Strathpine Dawn Service will take place from 5:20 a.m. to 6:05 a.m. at Club Pine Rivers.
Bribie Island will host a Dawn Service from 4:28 a.m. to 5 a.m. at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park, followed by a march at 8 a.m. from Apex Park. Burpengary will also hold a Dawn Service at the Burpengary Community Anzac Memorial, starting at 4:45 a.m., with a march at 10 a.m. to follow.
In Caboolture-Morayfield, a Dawn Service is set for 4:50 a.m. at Bolton Clarke Fernhill, followed by a march at 9:30 a.m. down King Street to the Caboolture War Memorial. Dayboro will have its own Dawn Service at Roderick Cruice Park, commencing at 5:15 a.m., leading into a march at 9:30 a.m.
Other notable services include the Gaythorne march at 6:15 a.m., Kallangur’s Dawn Service, and a mid-morning service in Redcliffe. Each event aims to foster a sense of community and remembrance, ensuring that the sacrifices made by previous generations are not forgotten.
As part of the commemorative activities, Major Robert Freebairn RAR (retired) will serve as the guest speaker during the official ANZAC Day commemorations in Cooke Park, Parkes. His insights and experiences are expected to resonate with attendees, further enriching the day’s significance.
In Peak Hill, Sergeant Phillip van der Reyden SAS (retired) will also address the crowd, sharing his reflections on service and sacrifice. These personal stories are integral to the ANZAC Day experience, reminding attendees of the human element behind the history.
As the dawn breaks on April 25, Australians will come together to reflect on the ANZAC spirit, embodying the values of endurance, courage, and mateship. Whether through a flypast of vintage aircraft, solemn marches, or heartfelt speeches, the day serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery exhibited by those who served.
For those looking to participate in the ANZAC Day services, detailed schedules and locations are available through local council websites and the RSL Queensland site. This year’s commemorations promise to be a moving tribute to the legacy of the ANZACs and a celebration of national pride.
