Published on Friday, 1 May 2026 at 10:27:19 AM

The Shire of Exmouth supported a moving and well-attended ANZAC Day Dawn Service on Saturday, 25 April 2026, with more than 500 residents and visitors gathering to pay their respects. The service, held at the Exmouth Cenotaph, commemorated the ANZAC’s landing at Gallipoli 111 years ago and honoured the service and sacrifice of all Australian and New Zealand service personnel, past and present.

The large attendance numbers illustrated the deep respect and gratitude the Exmouth community holds for service men and women who enable Australia to continue to live in peace and freedom. The service included key traditional proceedings such as wreath laying, the Ode of Remembrance, the Last Post, a period of silence, and the National Anthems.

The event was officiated by Shire President Matt Niikkula, who, alongside traditional elements, acknowledged the significant presence of Defence personnel in the Exmouth region with Wing Commander Shane Smith, Officer in Charge RAAF Base Learmonth, and Warrant Officer Class 2 Damian Powell, Exmouth Pilbara Regiment also speaking at the service.

Shire President Matt Niikkula said,

“ANZAC Day provides us, as a community, with the opportunity to reflect on the many meanings, impacts and nuances of war, including how it has shaped our own community and our shared history with Australian and US service personnel.”

In Exmouth, the influence of war and service is woven into the town’s history and identity. The ceremony offered a moment to recognise not only historical context but also the continued presence and contributions of Defence members and their families within the community and local economy. Shire President Matt Niikkula acknowledged this during his official speech, highlighting;

“Today, by coming together, we express our eternal gratitude to all serving personnel, especially those who have been stationed or deployed from the North West Cape.”

Following the Dawn Service, attendees participated in the traditional ANZAC Day March, proceeding from the Cenotaph to the Truscott Memorial Club, where a Gunfire Breakfast was held, providing an opportunity for the community to gather, share stories, and reflect on the significance of the day.

The Shire of Exmouth extends its sincere gratitude to all those who participated in and attended the ANZAC Day commemorations, including Defence personnel, veterans, community groups, and individuals. The day served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made to secure the freedoms we enjoy today and the ongoing importance of acknowledging Defence personnel serving Australia today.

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Sandra Flint, Coordinator Communications, Shire of Exmouth
 E: sflint@exmouth.wa.gov.au

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