There's no doubt that Anzac Day in 2020 will be very different to previous years.
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But Parkes Shire Council, along with the support of the Parkes RSL Sub Branch and many members of the community, is leading the way by encouraging residents to commemorate the national day of mourning and remembrance for those lost at war, at home.
Government and health restrictions around social distancing has sadly forced RSL sub branches around the country to cancel all Anzac Day services and ceremonies, including those across the Parkes Shire.
But since the cancellation, council and members of the public are reminding people there are still a number of ways locals can acknowledge Anzac Day and ensure Australian servicemen and women are appropriately remembered.
It's becoming close to an Australia-wide movement where families are encouraged to stand at the end of their driveways at 6am and/or 10am this Saturday, April 25, which is Anzac Day, and observe a minute's silence.
People can sign the pledge to light up the dawn at rslanzacspirit.com.au.
"Together, even while apart, we'll remember those who served and sacrificed," Parkes Shire Council said.
Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Ken Keith OAM believes Parkes can help keep the Anzac legacy alive this year.
"Australians are known for their qualities of mateship, humour, ingenuity, courage and endurance - and during this time of uncertainty, it's particularly important that we demonstrate these qualities and harness the Anzac Spirit," he said.
"By paying our respects from home we can ensure we keep the Anzac legacy alive, and also keep our friends, family and community safe by helping to stop the spread of COVID- 19."
Looking back at photos on Anzac Day in 2019:
Council also suggested other ways families can get involved and recognise Anzac Day, with TV media, such as the ABC broadcasting live the national Dawn Service at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra from 5.30am.
There will also be a 10am service from the Anzac Memorial in Sydney.
Meanwhile families can record themselves reciting the ode or share a message of support for veterans on social media and using the hashtag #ANZACSpirit.
Other ideas include donating to the Anzac appeal online, www.anzacappeal.com.au - which helps to provide specialist services like employment support, crisis accommodation, and health and wellbeing programs and financial assistance to thousands of veterans and their families; making a paper poppy wreath and hanging it on the door or fence or baking Anzac biscuits.
During the war, the biscuits were often baked to raise funds and an appropriate name helped sell them. They became 'Red Cross biscuits' or 'Soldiers' Biscuits' and were often sent in care packages to the troops overseas.
Residents can also use this day to reach out to a mate who might be alone.
"Many people are alone during this time of isolation. It's an opportunity to invoke the Anzac value of mateship and check to see how a mate is doing," council said.
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