GREEN LIGHT FOR ANZAC COMMEMORATIONS

Queensland’s Anzac Day commemorations will proceed as normal.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced this morning that dawn services, marches and other commemorations can go ahead.

The Premier gave credit for the decision to Queensland’s success in stopping the spread of COVID-19.

“Every single Queenslander responded to the call to stop the spread of the virus,” the Premier said.

“That has allowed us to ease our restrictions further and faster throughout the pandemic.

“It means we can gather in our streets and at cenotaphs to mark the sacrifices of previous generations, serving men and women and their families.

“This freedom should be commemorated and never forgotten.

“I discussed Anzac Day with Dr Young and she is fully supportive of allowing crowds back to mark this special day.”

Outdoor events including dawn services will proceed without the need for check-in procedures.

Indoor events, such at RSL Clubs, will require normal sign-ins.

The Premier said Dr Young was confident, should contact tracing be required, those attending services would step forward.

RSL Queensland State President Tony Ferris applauded the decision.

“The RSL is overjoyed,” he said.

“The communities and our veterans will be able to step out with their comrades so a great day for Queensland.”

RSL South-eastern Sub-branch President Kerry Gallagher said it allowed the community to show their respect to service men and women and their families.

“Veterans get together one day a year and march down the streets of their town, the one they gave service to, and be able to catch up with their mates,” he said.

The 2020 commemorations were crowd-free events because of the risk of spreading COVID.

The popular ‘Light Up the Dawn’ initiative will continue.

The Premier said the return of other Anzac services allowed the community to pay further respect to servicemen, service women and their families.

“Marches and dawn services allow servicemen and women and their families the opportunity to gather together,” the Premier said.

“It also allows us in the general community to show our respect and thanks.

“I am pleased this special day can return as it was.

“Lest we forget.”

ENDS

Media contact: Shane Doherty 0439 624 473