It is the 25th April each year on which Australians and New Zealanders commemorate Anzac Day. It is the solemn day for remembrance of those Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers who have fought and died for their country, and is marked annually on the anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign of the First World War.
To mark one of Australian’s most important national commemorative occasions in Chiang Mai a large group gathered at the House of Praise International Church court-yard. The Dawn Service began at 6 am with a formal welcome that included a hymn and prayer, addresses from the Australian Honorary Consul and a Royal Australian Navy LCDR, J Richardson, then the laying of wreaths, playing of the last post by a Thai army bugler , one minutes silence & then reveille and flag raising. The service concluded with the playing of national anthems of Australia and New Zealand.
After the close of the service guests were then asked to be upstanding for the Thai national anthem in respect of holding the event in Thailand. This year there were a number of official Thai guests including the Deputy Governor Chiang Mai province, Chief of Ministry of Foreign Affairs CM, representatives of Royal Thai Army Circle 33 and Royal Thai Police, Chang Puak Station.
Wreaths were laid on behalf of a number of organisations and individuals such as Australia, New Zealand, Austcham, Australian Defense Force, American Veterans, schools, foundations & families. This was followed by a complimentary Aussie style BBQ breakfast.
Breakfast Social
After the official Anzac Day Dawn Service this morning those attending were invited to an Anzac breakfast and social time. The gracious host of the event, the House of Praise International Church, cooked up a storm of sausages and onions, along with damper, timtams and anzac biscuits. Some lucky people got to sample the home-made ginger beer.
Many guests lingered over coffee and refreshments to chat among themselves and to engage with the Royal Australian Navy team. Even our Thai guests enjoyed sampling some Aussie favorites. It was a great social event and a fitting conclusion to the Chiang Mai Anzac Day Dawn Service. Thanks to host and team that delivered a great event.
Why is Anzac Day important?
On Anzac Day, we recognise the courage, mateship, skill, and perseverance of those who have served, fought, and given their lives in the military. On Anzac Day, we show love, honor and support for those who fought to enable freedom for people all over the world, but were not able to make it home.
Chiang Mai – aside from the dawn service there were some opportunities for people to get together and remember at the Downunder Pub, Riders Corner and other establishments around town. Some of the Navy contingent popped into the Downunder Pub around lunch time to enjoy a cold one and a chat.
Australian Consulate Chiang Mai 