Across a full day of Anzac Day 2025 commemorations in Brisbane, Her Excellency has paid solemn tribute to the service and sacrifice of generations of Australians and New Zealanders in the 110 years since our troops landed at Gallipoli.
The day began in the stillness of dawn, with the Governor delivering an address and, alongside Professor Nimmo, laying the first wreath during the 2025 Anzac Day Dawn Service of Remembrance. In her address, Her Excellency spoke of the enduring legacy of the original Anzacs—“a strong, invisible chain that has survived the years”—and of the profound importance of humility, dignity, and peace.
Following the service, the Vice-Regal couple hosted a special breakfast at Government House for senior Australian Defence Force officers and Queensland Police Service personnel (including the motorcycle escort to the Dawn Service).
The Governor and Professor Nimmo then attended the annual Anzac Day Mass at Cathedral of St Stephen, Brisbane before attending the 2025 Brisbane Anzac Day Parade. From the saluting dais, Her Excellency formally reviewed the parade and declared the First Resolution—honouring the memory of all who have served, and the strength of community forged through shared service and sacrifice.
Among the thousands who lined the parade route were 10-year-old Teo Kidd and 100-year-old Murielle Ahern (née McGrath)—two Queenslanders of vastly different generations, united in their deep appreciation of Anzac Day. Teo, who has family members who have served going back several generations, said he felt it was important to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of our forebears. Murielle, who served at HMAS Moreton and HMAS Penguin during WWII and marched in both Sydney celebrations marking the end of the war in Europe and the Pacific, urged young people to get active in their communities and “serve in whatever way they are able.”
Her Excellency concluded the day at the United Service Club Queensland’s Anzac Day Lunch. It was a fitting conclusion to a day dedicated to reflection, unity, and gratitude.
In her Dawn Service speech, the Governor reflected on the legacy left by the servicemen and women of every generation: “We honour Anzac Day not to glorify war, but to recognise the immense preciousness of peace… We carry this understanding close to our hearts, so that we may fully appreciate the efforts being made today, to ensure our protection and security.”
Government House Queensland
