Tom Venning (Grey, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This Anzac Day we will come together to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who chose to stand and fight for this country. The day itself marks the moment when 16,000 Australian and New Zealand troops landed under fire on the shores of Gallipoli on 25 April 1915, a day and a battle that now underpins much of what we consider to be the core of the Australian spirit. Events unfolding around the world remind us how precious our peace and freedoms truly are. They underscore why the values our Australian troops fought to protect remain as vital today as they were on the shores of Gallipoli.

This Anzac Day, we honour the memories of more than 103,000 veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice. We remember and give thanks for the service of all of those who have fought for our freedoms throughout history, and those who serve our country today. Australia is prosperous today because those men and women were prepared to fight when the call came in, we. We will remember them; lest we forget.

Recently we celebrated two fantastic events on the Yorke Peninsula. Minlaton marked its incredible 150th anniversary, a huge milestone for an absolutely vital farming town. In my home town of Bute, our local Lions Club celebrated 50 golden years of community service. For me, these two events perfectly illustrate the true spirit of the country. Our local communities just keep delivering for our region, no matter what gets in the way. And make no mistake, we are facing some very real challenges. Fuel issues are hurting everyone, and the algal bloom in the Spencer Gulf is causing real devastation for our coastal towns. It's a tough time for us all, but groups like the Bute Lions and the hard working Minlaton 150th committee prove that our regional spirit is strong and resilient.

With that resilience in mind, I want to encourage everyone to enjoy their Easter. I know that costs have risen and budgets are very tight. However, I ask those who can to please still travel and visit the coastal communities. Visit the regions. Do your part, hit the road, make some memories, support our beautiful regions and the small businesses who make Easter in the country a magical, magical time.