A NUMBER of Ballarat identities have joined forces to produce a freely accessible video showing the true meaning of Anzac Day.
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Former photographer at The Courier, Jeremy Bannister, alongside WIN News anchor Bruce Roberts, have produced the video which features interviews with veterans, local police and young people which is now available to view on YouTube and will be a welcome companion for those making the trip to the end of the driveway on Saturday morning.
The video has been shot in and around Ballarat and Wollongong and features some key landmarks such as the city's Cenotaph, Arch of Victory and Ex Prisoners of War Memorial.
It reflects all the elements of a regular dawn service with speakers, the Last Post and inspiring words from an Aussie war hero, Battle of Long Tan medal recipient Bill Akell.
"Anzac Day means a lot to me, it gives me the opportunity to remember the mates of mine who are no longer here," said the retired Army Major.
SEE THE VIDEO HERE
Mr Bannister said this year, Anzac Day would be a solitary experience for many.
"Bruce and I are both the sons of veterans and have a long family history of service and wanted to make sure that although we're isolated this Anzac day, we're not alone," Mr Bannister said.
"The fact the light up the driveway idea started in Ballarat made this a bit of a no-brainer actually. It was Bruce's idea that there was something people can use as a tool to attend their own Anzac ceremony.
"It's all well and good to light up a candle, but this gives people an opportunity to follow through a service, so they can say they have been involved in a service.
"Bruce and I have known each other for years, so we were able to shoot some of the footage from Wollongong where he is based, and some here in Ballarat."
The Ode is recited by Ballarat Police inspector Trevor Cornwill and former Loreto student Isobelle De Livera.
Ms De Livera said she was delighted to honour her forebears who fought at Gallipoli.
"It is very crucial we remember the sacrifices that the young men and women made during the wars...and so on this day especially it's important to remember them," she said.
Mr Bannister said he was thrilled to have everyone involved in the production, saying every single person who was asked freely gave their time.
"Everyone just jumped at the opportunity, we've been thrilled with the response."
The video can be found on Facebook or by searching YouTube with the string "Your personal dawn service".
Ballarat residents are encouraged to take their iPads, phones or laptops and play the video alongside your candle from the end of your driveway on Saturday morning.
HOW DO YOU PLAN TO COMMEMORATE ANZAC DAY? TELL US HERE
