The Centenary of Anzac 2014 to 2018 is Australia’s most important period of national commemoration. Marking 100 years since our involvement in the First World War, the Anzac Centenary is a time to honour the service and sacrifice of our original ANZACs, and the generations of Australian servicemen and women who have defended our values and freedoms, in wars, conflicts and peace operations throughout a Century of Service. 2018 will mark the 75th anniversary of the Thai Burma railway’s completion. You can find more information on Anzac Portal.
“25th April – ANZAC DAY 2018 – CHIANG MAI – DAWN SERVICE”
The Australian Consulate Chiang Mai and the House of Praise International Church wishes to thank everyone who attended the 6 am Anzac Day Dawn Memorial Service in Chiang Mai on the 25th April. It was very moving service and tribute to the fallen, former and serving members of the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces and was followed by an Aussie BBQ breakfast and social gathering.
This year Pastor J Vickers was the host and master of ceremonies for this event. Addresses were made by the Honorary Consul of Australia in Chiangmai, Ron Elliott and the Australian Army representative, WO2 Nick Wiles. Royal Australian Navy personnel from HMAS Anzac, Lieutenant. Grant Moran and his team were also in attendance to welcome guests and attend to Flag duties during the service. The laying of a large number of wreaths representing various organisations was a solemn tribute. Many wore their own or relatives medals in a sign of respect. There was a display area for those wishing to share memorial pictures or Anzac stories.
A good number of guests attended and around 150 were early birds and got there for the 6 am start. This year the Consulate invited Thai Government officials to join the service as our guests – The Governor Chiang Mai Province represented by the Vice Governor; Royal Thai Police Region 5 represented by the Commander Chang Puek Police Station and Royal Thai Armed Forces represented by the 33rd Military Circle, Deputy Chief Kawilia Barracks. This year we also had the kind service of a Royal Thai Army bugler to play the “last post” and “reveille” which added a solemn touch to the service.
Following the service the Aussie BBA breakfast of sausage & onion sandwich with some damper, tim tams and refreshments made for a great social gathering.
The Australian Consulate Chiang Mai wishes to thank the Christian Outreach Centre/House of Praise International Church for hosting this event – something like 14 years now. Particular thanks goes to Pastor Vickers, Dr Jane Edwards and the team for facilitating the dawn service.
The Anzac Centenary is the symbol that recognises, identifies and commemorates one hundred years of Anzac. This Centenary marks not only one hundred years since the First World War, but also a century of service of men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. More information is available at this website on Anzac Centenary.
Aussie Canuk Expat in Chiang Mai 
hi ron,what a great solemn dawn service for anzac day,very touching and respectful,great to see so many people in attendance.enjoyed the conversation at the down under bar later.mate,you do a wonderful job here in chiang mai as the consul general.very sincere and respectful regards,phil nelligan ps,it was salt spring island off vancouver.
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