NSW Police Ensure ‘Safe’ Anzac Day Events Attended By 200,000 People; Abbott Praises Australian Forces Serving In Middle East

Tony Abbott said that Australian armed forces serving overseas were “founding heroes of modern Australia.” The Australian prime minister addressed 10,500 Australian and New Zealand pilgrims in his centenary address at the Gallipoli dawn service.

Abbott said that the Anzacs represented Australians at their best. He praised the soldiers who had served in the World War I. At the same time, he appreciated the service of those who were serving in the Middle East. Abbott said that the original Anzacs had shown the mark of "a decent human being" with their selflessness, duty and moral courage.

Around 20,000 serving and ex-service personnel marched through Sydney’s CBD in a parade which went on for four hours. There were 60 volunteer bands which accompanied them. There were 200,000 people who gathered to commemorate the special occasion.

A record 30,000 people joined NSW Governor David Hurley, Premier Mike Baird and other dignitaries for the Dawn Service at Martin Place. Hurley said that Australians give a job their best shot, looked after their mates and did the job proudly to celebrate the spirit of the Anzac.

Australian entrepreneur Dick Smith was holding a “thank you” sign as he waited on the side-lines of the George Street parade. He said that Anzac meant never taking freedom for granted.

NSW Police earlier released a statement to commend Anzac Day crowds for “reverence demonstrated throughout commemorative activities and events.” The statement says that the day marks one of the most important national occasions in the country.

Operation Lionheart is credited for the safe and secure environment for Anzac Day events throughout New South Wales. The high-visibility policing strategy allowed the huge crowd to enjoy the day respectfully and without disruption. “Large crowds cheered and honoured a record 20,130 participants as they marched along George Street in the Anzac Day March,” the statement says.

Assistant Commissioner Mick Fuller, the Operation Lionheart Commander, appreciated that the crowd had behaved responsibly and respected the significance of the day. “We saw some of the largest Anzac Day crowds in Sydney today and it was pleasing to see people marking this significant milestone in the history of the ANZAC,” he said.

Contact the writer: s.mukhopadhyay@ibtimes.com.au