Northern Beaches Council is encouraging residents to look at all the ways they can mark ANZAC Day at home this year in light of the cancellation of traditional ceremonies due to COVID-19.

Council has draped Australian flags on war veteran graves at Mona Vale and Manly cemeteries in lieu of the volunteers who were not able to do so this year, and even our childcare centres have got involved, making rosemary wreaths, poppy necklaces and baking ANZAC biscuits.

To make it easy for residents to find out how they can take part this year, Council has set up a new resource on its website. It includes links to videos and activities, community run initiatives and those run by local Sub-Branches.

There is a local video of the Last Post taken at sunrise and an inspirational reading from Balgowlah RSL President and Chair of the Manly War Memorial Committee, Geoff McKay. Residents can also read about the history of the 1,000 Indigenous Australians who served in World War 1.

In addition, many residents will be participating in the “Light up the Dawn” initiative by standing at their driveway from 6am and those who play brass instruments will mark the day by playing the Last Post.

Mayor Michael Regan said despite the COVID-19 crisis, people want to show their support and respect for the fallen on April 25 across the Northern Beaches.

“ANZAC Day has and will always be one of the most important days on the Australian calendar, and this Saturday will be no different.

“There are many ways people can commemorate this ANZAC Day and show their appreciation to our fallen, and those who have served and continue to serve.

“I’d encourage everyone to get out on your driveways, or balconies, or even your lounge room, and join the Light Up The Dawn RSL campaign. And if you want to do someone a little more local, jump online and go to our website to grab all the details of what our awesome sub branches are doing,’’ the Mayor said.

The official Anzac Day Commemorative Service in Canberra will broadcast live by the ABC and streamed online from 5:30am. A TV service will also be broadcast from the Anzac Memorial in Sydney from 10am.