RSL LifeCare marks Anzac Day with Deep Respect and Ongoing Commitment to Veterans

RSL LifeCare has proudly commemorated Anzac Day 2025 with a series of heartfelt services and events across its aged care and retirement communities throughout New South Wales and the ACT—reflecting the organisation’s deep respect for veterans and a year-round commitment to their wellbeing.

Commemorations began on Wednesday, 16 April, with the 30th Australian War Widows ACT Field of Remembrance Dedication and Anzac Service, held at Sir Leslie Morshead Manor in Lyneham. This year marked the 24th consecutive year that RSL LifeCare partnered with Australian War Widows (ACT) to host this meaningful event. Her Excellency The Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, and Patron of RSL LifeCare attended as guest speaker.

The service joined together veterans, war widows and their families, along with members of the diplomatic corps, Australian Defence Force representatives, government officials, and Ex-Service Organisations. Following the formalities, guests were invited to place small wooden crosses in the Field of Remembrance—a quiet, personal act of honouring loved ones and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“These events are not just symbolic,” said Janet Muir, CEO of RSL LifeCare. “They’re deeply personal. For the veterans in our care, Anzac Day is a living memory. Our responsibility is to ensure those memories are honoured with dignity—not only on April 25, but every single day.”

Commemorations continued at RSL LifeCare’s largest veteran community, RSL LifeCare Anzac Village in Narrabeen, where two significant events brought together residents, military personnel, and the local community. On Wednesday, 23 April, the Village hosted a March and Commemorative Service, featuring veterans from the Village, the Royal Australian Navy Band Sydney, and personnel from HMAS Waterhen and Headquarters Forces Command. Colonel Bronwyn Thomas delivered the commemorative address, reflecting on her 22 years of service and honouring the families who support those who serve.

On Anzac Day itself, Friday 25 April, a Dawn Service at the Village included an address by Captain Cameron Wise, followed by a community breakfast hosted by RSL LifeCare. Later in the morning, the 70th annual Taxi Cavalcade transported veterans into the city to take part in the Sydney Anzac Day March—an enduring tradition that connects generations of service.

RSL LifeCare also continued another powerful tradition with the Sydney Harbour Bridge Dawn Service, held at sunrise on Anzac Day. First held in 2006, this unique tribute has become an iconic part of Sydney’s evolving Anzac commemorations, offering a breathtaking and solemn setting to remember those who served.

Across the state and territory, Anzac Day services were held at 34 RSL LifeCare aged care and retirement communities. From regional towns to metropolitan centres, these services offered a chance for residents, staff, families, and local communities to reflect and remember together. Many of the veterans residing in these homes served in Australia’s major military conflicts and peacekeeping missions, and for them, these services are deeply meaningful.

“Anzac Day holds deep meaning for all Australians,” said Janet Muir, CEO of RSL LifeCare. “It’s a time to reflect on the remarkable courage and sacrifice of those who have served—and those who continue to serve—our country.

“At RSL LifeCare, this day resonates deeply. Many of the veterans we support have lived through the very moments we pause to remember—whether on the frontlines or in rebuilding their lives afterward. Their strength and stories shape the care we provide and the values we uphold.

“We are profoundly grateful to communities across the nation for continuing to honour their legacy. The spirit of the Anzacs lives not only in services and ceremonies, but in everyday gestures of remembrance, kindness, and connection. Whenever someone takes a moment to reflect or show gratitude, it reminds our veterans that their contributions are never forgotten. Their legacy lives on—not just on Anzac Day, but in how we choose to remember, every single day.”

RSL LifeCare’s support for veterans continues far beyond Anzac Day. Through our dedicated Veteran Services programs, we provide holistic and lifelong support to current and former members of the Australian Defence Force and their families. Services include Veteran and Family Hubs, wellbeing support, DVA claims and advocacy, employment assistance, housing and homelessness support, and the Spur Equine Program. To learn more about RSL LifeCare’s Veteran Services, visit: www.rsllifecare.org.au

Media Contact:

Nicole Hogan, RSL LifeCare

0467 733 296

[email protected]