Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, originally commemorated by both countries on 25 April every year to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who fought at Gallipoli in the Ottoman Empire during World War I. It now more broadly commemorates all those who served and died in military operations for their countries.

Anzac Day is the day we remember all Australians who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. The spirit of Anzac, with its human qualities of courage, mateship, and sacrifice, continues to have meaning and relevance for our sense of national identity.

Watch the Anzac Day Dawn Service Live on YouTube

Unable to make a service in person, join us online to honour our servicemen and women at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, live-streamed from the Cairns Esplanade. Tune in from anywhere to pause, reflect, and pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our nation.

Dawn Service is at 5:30am followed by the Services March at 7:30am - watch the service live on YouTube


Local Anzac Day events

Services will be held across the Cairns region to recognise the spirit of Anzac and remember those who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Last Updated: 24 April 2026

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