A record 10,000 people attended the dawn service at Central Park.
Camera IconA record 10,000 people attended the dawn service at Central Park. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Growing youth turnout for Anzacs ‘heartening’

Justin BianchiniWanneroo Times

"It is heartening to see the increasing number of people, especially our younger generations attending these dawn services and the Anzac Day march," he said.

He told the 10,000-strong crowd at the Wanneroo-Joondalup RSL and City of Joondalup joint service that he had joined the air force when he was 25 as an airborne electronics analyst, operating on the P-3 Orion aircraft based at RAAF base Edinburgh in South Australia.

"During this time I have deployed to the Middle East three times, flying over Afghanistan and Iraq, assisting coalition ground troops and naval operations.

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"I have also been involved in many search and rescues around the world, including the search for MH370 off the coast of WA.

"Today I serve at RAAF base Pearce, co-ordinating and facilitating base operations. My role allows me the opportunity to support the military movements of our three Services, and the various armed forces from around the world.

"On each deployment what stands out is Australia's professionalism, expertise, and strong desire to show the world that we are good at what we do and we are a nation that wants the best for all people.

"I have been involved in these efforts and I am proud to announce that I am Australian when working with foreign forces and I wear the Australian flag on my uniform with pride."

He said the centenary of the Gallipoli landings was a special day when "we remember all those, whether Service personnel or civilians, of every nation, who suffered or continue to suffer through war".

Paula Parore performed renditions of the New Zealand and Australian anthems, while Rev John Myles blessed the Central Park Lone Pine tree.