For some of us, this means rising before the sun and joining members of the community to stand in silence and honour the fallen. For others, it means marching to remember, and in honour of, the men and women who put their lives on the line for our country.

We are fortunate to live a country that is free from conflict, where residents are safe and our children can become adults, safe in the knowledge the future is theirs to create.

For this, we thank the brave men and women who sacrificed all to ensure the future of our nation, who paid the ultimate price for our liberty.

Anzac Day was originally marked as a day to respect and remember the Australian troops who fought at Gallipoli during the First World War, a century ago in 1915.

It was those soldiers who initially created and embodied the legacy of mateship and bravery.

But in modern times, Anzac Day has become a symbol of more than remembrance.

While we will never forget the legacy of the Anzacs, this day is also an opportunity to pay respect, and thank, those currently serving in a battle against those who wish us harm.

We are fortunate to live in a City that is nestled far from the conflict occurring overseas. However, we have a history of helping citizens in other countries when they have asked for our help.

So today, it is our brothers, our sisters, our mothers and fathers, our residents, who stand up and face this threat – those who are willing to fight for the freedom we enjoy as a result of our forefathers sacrifice.

This Anzac Day there are many locations across our City where we can join together as a community and say thank you to all the men and women, who have, and continue, to safeguard this wonderful life we live.

Join me, this Anzac Day at the Dawn service at Cardiff RSL Memorial Club at 5.15am and the 11am service at the War Memorial, Redhead, as we promise - Lest We Forget.

For further Anzac Day services in Lake Macquarie, including Belmont, Charlestown, Dudley, Morisset, Pelican, Rathmines, Swansea and Toronto, go to lakemac.com.au.

You can also visit our website to find our which council services will be operating on Monday, April 25.