MEDIA RELEASE: Snap COVID lockdown forces cancellation of traditional ANZAC Day commemorations

Traditional ANZAC Day commemoration services have been cancelled with the announcement of an immediate three-night COVID-19 lockdown for Perth and Peel from midnight tonight.

WA Premier Mark McGowan made the announcement this afternoon following an unfolding emergency COVID situation involving a hotel quarantine case – with a man contracting the virus in a CBD hotel quarantine and flying to Melbourne.

How to Light Up The Dawn this ANZAC Day … with your RSLWA Dawn Service audio!

RSLWA CEO John McCourt said that, while this was very disappointing news, it is unavoidable in today’s pandemic conditions. RSLWA fully supports the actions of the McGowan Government and the need for the community to come together in helping prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“RSLWA wishes to acknowledge all of our volunteers and staff for their tireless efforts to get COVID-friendly events across the line for Sunday.

“But like our ANZACs before us, we will adapt and overcome with resilience in the face of this fresh challenge. We encourage the broader community to continue to commemorate on Sunday at home.

RSLWA is encouraging the communities of Perth and Peel to again step up and support the Light Up The Dawn commemorations from 6am on Sunday.

West Australians are encouraged to form up in their driveways, balconies and farm gates. For more information please go to the RSLWA website https://www.rslwa.org.au/news/12681/  for details about radio stations broadcasting services. An MP3 audio recording of The Last Post and full service is also available on the RSLWA website.

“RSLWA wishes to extend its deepest gratitude to its hundreds of volunteers and staff who were planning  commemorative events.”