Every year, on the 25th of April, Australians gather across the nation to pay their respects to those who served on behalf of our country. However, this year those traditions looked vastly different to our normal ones; people standing in their driveways rather than attending dawn services. Despite the global pandemic, Australians rallied together in a show of unity. At six o’clock, keeping with social distancing, we joined together through lighting candles and listening to the live stream recorded by the RSL. Through our actions, we recognise the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers in Gallipoli and those who continue to protect and serve our country. It is mateship and comradery that defined Australian soldiers in 1915, and it is those attributes that are continuously displayed as we show support towards our veterans and soldiers. Whilst ceremonies were small, their importance was in no way diminished. Those with instruments performed the last post, and some expressed their respect with displays of poppies. Regardless of these ‘untraditional’ ceremonies, Australians displayed their support and admiration for those who helped shape the country we are fortunate enough to call home. These changing times have helped us recognise the importance of freedom, a value that our soldiers laid their lives down for not only on the coast of Gallipoli but throughout history. Our actions, dedicating the time to pay our respects, meant that we not only acknowledged our soldiers, but also medics and nurses. Their fearless dedication and contribution is the reason many survived the horrors written in our history. The 25th of April was Australia and New Zealand’s thank you to those who protect our lives, freedoms and rights. The collective, ongoing efforts of our army, navy and air-force deserve our recognition and respect. In years to come, ANZAC Day 2020 will be remembered as the day the nation came together to remember its heroes. Where, despite the state of the world, people lined their driveways, standing together in pride and recognised the ANZAC spirit. We stood 1.5 metres apart and proudly sung our anthem. Whilst we did not have our usual marches or dawn services, we stood together across the nation- a sign of solidarity. Bribie Island was not able to hold its many services this year, however our remembrance has taken the form of a time capsule. The capsule is set to be opened in approximately 20 years and will contain pictures, speeches, letters or personal photos about ANZAC Day 2020- submitted by the local community. This community-based action is Bribie Island’s way of remembering our veterans and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. To all of those who have served or who are currently serving, we thank you for your devotion to your country. Today, we stood up for you to pay our upmost respects and acknowledge the great sacrifices you have made for our country. Lest We Forget.