Big crowds at Top End ceremonies

As flags at half-mast gently moved with the cool breeze in the Top End, thousands of Territorians commemorated Anzac Day in Darwin and Palmerston.

In the early hours of April 25, Darwin fell silent as The Ode was recited.

CMDR 1 Bde, Brig Rob Haertsch, reminded the huge crowd why they gathered each year to remember.

“In the face of adversity and likely defeat, the Australian spirit endured and triumphed,” Brig Haertsch said.

“In many cases, it [Australia] was not their country of birth. Many Australians by choice – migrants – who stepped forward without hesitation.

“Many continue to fight silent battles long after returning home.”

As the sun rose, the numbers in attendance became apparent.

“It was still a bit dark, but now having seen the numbers, it’s enormous,” Brig Haertsch said later.

As the people made their way to Knuckey Street to watch the parade, a sense of excitement mixed with emotion filled the air.

Personnel from across Robertson Barracks, HMAS Coonawarra, RAAF Darwin, the United States Marine Corps, and veterans marched side by side through the city centre.

Leading the contingent, 8/12 Regt, RAA had its colours in tow, with M777 howitzers representing its history and traditions. The cheers and clapping from the crowd were only drowned out by the flyover conducted by 1st Avn Regt.