Kia ora tātou
As we gather together this coming Anzac day on this solemn occasion to remember, reflect, and honour those past and present.
Anzac Day is a time for all Australians and New Zealanders to pause and pay tribute to the brave men and women who served — and continue to serve — our nations in times of war, conflict, and peacekeeping.
It was on the shores of Gallipoli, on April 25, 1915, that the Anzac spirit was born.
Young soldiers, many not much older than teenagers, stepped into the unknown with courage, determination, and a deep sense of duty.
They faced hardship beyond imagination, and many made the ultimate sacrifice.
Let us not forget, Anzac Day is not only about Gallipoli.
It is a day to honour all who have served — in every battle and every theatre of war since.
From the trenches of the Western Front to the deserts of North Africa, from the jungles of Vietnam to modern-day peacekeeping missions, Australian and New Zealand service personnel have stood tall in the face of adversity.
We still have service men and women doing their part within current conflicts and high risk operations occurring around the world today, and we honour their courage.
We honour their sacrifice. And we honour the families who bear the high cost of conflict — the mothers, fathers, partners, and tamariki whose lives were and are forever changed.
This year, as we lay wreaths, bow our heads, and stand in silence, we do so not to glorify war, but to acknowledge the depth of human bravery and the tragedy of conflict.
We remember so that we never forget the price of our freedoms.
The Anzac spirit — mateship, perseverance, courage, and sacrifice — is not confined to the battlefield.
It lives on in the way we support each other, care for our communities, and face challenges together.
As we remember those who paid the highest price, let us recommit ourselves to peace, to unity, and to building a better future — one worthy of their sacrifice.
‘‘He mate ki waho, he mate i te kainga’’
A death abroad, a death at home.
This whakataukī — reminds us that the loss of life — whether near or far — deeply affects us all.
It speaks to the shared sorrow and sacrifice experienced both on the battlefield and at home.
May we always honour that sacrifice, and carry their memory with us.
Kaua e wareware. Lest we forget.
Tommo (Adam Thomas) SCRSA President
