Attendance at the Childers Anzac Day Dawn Service has increased over the past four years, leading the committee to decide on a new location for the service.
Previously held in the undercover area near the Krupp cannon, this year the service will be held on the grassed area adjacent to the Soldier’s Room on the eastern side of the Council building.
In 2024, organisers estimated the attendance to be in excess of 150 people, which lead to problems accommodating people on surrounding footpaths and hearing the service over the PA.
Organiser Barry Cochrane said the decision to move the service would overcome these issues.
“The area is much bigger and will allow everyone attending to be more a part of the whole service,” Barry said.
“All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend the Dawn Service, in fact, all Anzac Day services.
“All three local schools participate with children representing their schools and laying wreaths.
“This is quite an effort for these children and their parents who have to get them out of bed and at the service for a 5 am start.”
The service includes representatives from local community groups, with Childers Choral Society leading the singing.
“Quite a large number of Veterans take part in the service as they bow their heads and remember mates past and present who they served alongside whilst part of the Australian Defence Force,” Barry said.
“This year the Commemorative Address will be delivered by Mayor Helen Blackburn.
“Hopefully those attending the Dawn Service will feel a sense of pride as they listen to the prayers, reading and addresses and give thanks for the life we now have due to the efforts and sacrifice of our brave men and women who even today are still defending our country.”
Childers Anzac Day Dawn Service commences at 4.50 am with the Parade March from Childers RSL to the Memorial Precinct.
Find further details the service, and other services around the Bundaberg Region, in Bundaberg Regional Council’s Anzac Day booklet.
