Crowds streamed through Ballina’s streets before dawn, headlights cutting through the darkness as people made their way—some from miles away—to the RSL Memorial Park for this year’s Anzac Day Dawn Service.

Despite heavy overnight showers, one of the biggest turnouts in recent memory gathered under the giant fig tree, the rain easing just in time for the ceremony to begin—and holding off until shortly after its conclusion.

They arrived en masse to the sound of a lone piper, creating a solemn backdrop as the community settled into silence around the cenotaph.

Wreaths were laid by dignitaries including Mayor Sharon Cadwallader and NSW Upper House President Ben Franklin MLC, alongside veterans and community representatives.

The Headliners Chorus, conducted by Cathy Gordon, led the crowd in hymn, with Abide With Me and the New Zealand and Australian national anthems echoing through the park.

The keynote address was delivered by Royal Australian Navy Commodore Colin Dagg, who reflected on the enduring meaning of Anzac Day and the legacy of service.

“Today we gather to commemorate Anzac Day, a day of solemn reflection and enduring gratitude, forever remembered in the history of our nation,” Commodore Dagg said.

“On the 25th of April, we reflect on the landings at Gallipoli in 1915… young Australians and New Zealanders showed the world the qualities that would come to define our nation—bravery, endurance, mateship and sacrifice.”

He paid tribute to those who never returned, and to those who came home forever changed.

“Each life lost reminds us of the cost of freedom and stands as a testament to their heroism, loyalty and selfless service,” he said.

Commodore Dagg also acknowledged the role of families and the continuing service of Defence personnel today.

“The Anzac spirit is not confined to one time or one generation. It lives on in all who wear the uniform… in the calm professionalism of our sailors navigating heavy seas, and in the teamwork of shipmates who rely on one another through every challenge.”

He urged those gathered to carry the legacy forward.

“Let us honour their example, not just through remembrance, but through how we live, lead and serve every day.”

Following the Last Post, a minute’s silence and the Ode, the crowd remained in quiet reflection before the service concluded.

Hundreds then made their way to the RSL Club for breakfast, continuing a long-standing tradition of camaraderie.

Not long after, the clouds returned and the rain set in once again—almost as if the weather itself had paused to allow the community its moment of remembrance.

If anything, the size of the crowd and the depth of feeling on display suggested the spirit of the Anzacs—and the community’s commitment to honouring it—remains as strong as ever.