After being cancelled during the pandemic, the popular ANZAC Dawn Service at Kings Park will return this year and is expected to attract large numbers.

This year you have to register to attend, which is free but you can only register six people at a time.

With COVID-19 concerns still looming, attendance numbers cannot reach more than 10,000 people.

Precautions are also in place with social distancing of 1.5 metres required and mask-wearing recommended by the Returned and Services League WA. 

Last year’s successful driveway service will return this year, being broadcast on ABC radio for people to tune in from home.

Vietnam veteran and former president of the RSL WA Graham Edwards says that though the traditional event will be appreciated by many, people may opt to stay home.

The King’s Park War Memorial will once again be a main focus in 2021. Video: Charlotte Spraggs.

Mr Edwards says that the restrictions may mean attendance won’t be as high as it was be before COVID-19.

“I am not sure that we will see bigger numbers this year,” he says.

“It will depend on the weather as well as people practicing social-distance and best health observances.

“So, I doubt the crowds will be as big, but I am sure they will be very enthusiastic,” Mr Edwards says.

Veteran David Maxton, who served nine years with the Australian Navy, says he is looking forward to the face-to-face commemorations.

“It will be great having the normal service this year because it means a lot to us being able to get together, to march and to be able to have a bite with our mates afterwards,” he says.

“It is hard for people to understand. If you have been through a war zone or something like that, you get a deeper understanding of people who have been through the same thing,”

“So, being able to come together like that is a great thing for veterans,” Mr Maxton says.

The theme for this year’s commemoration is Flying into the New Era to celebrate the Royal Australian Air Force’s 100th anniversary.

People will be able to visit the ANZAC House Veteran Central on April 25 for the first time ever, with veterans and defence personnel set to attend.

Veteran Terry Reynolds says ANZAC Day is about all those who have made sacrifices for the country.

“It’s a day that is embedded in people’s life and it should be a day that should be commemorated forever,” he says.

“Not just the ANZACs but all people that have given their lives for freedom in this country and from all wars.”