Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Roads, and Minister for Regional Transport) (20:12): On 25 April this year, our community came together with reverence and unity to mark 110 years since the Gallipoli landings. From Maitland Park and Morpeth to East Maitland and beyond in Beresfield, our Anzac Day services were a moving tribute to all who have served and continue to serve our nation. At dawn in East Maitland, I stood alongside hundreds of locals at the William Street cenotaph. As the light broke, we paused together to remember the sacrifices made. The East Maitland march stepped off from George Street with veterans, school students, first responders and community groups walking proudly. Among them was a particularly moving presence for the first time—the Australian Khalsa Association and the Sikh Sangat Charitable Association Newcastle, whose members marched in memory of the often‑overlooked Sikh Australians who served in the First World War.

Their presence was more than symbolic—it was historical. At least 12 Sikhs are now confirmed to have served in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I, despite significant barriers under the recruitment practices of the time. Those trailblazers, including men like Private Sam Singh who died in action in 1917, fought not only for their adopted homeland, but also for the values we celebrate and commemorate on Anzac Day—courage, mateship and sacrifice. To see these descendants march proudly alongside other veterans was deeply powerful and a long‑overdue recognition of a shared legacy. I particularly thank the Australian Khalsa Association and the Sikh Sangat Charitable Association Newcastle for their leadership and commitment to ensuring this history is remembered. I also thank them for their hot curries served to many of the attendees at the marches. I also thank East Maitland RSL Sub-Branch President Tony Mulquiney and secretary Judy Gargosky for coordinating such a thoughtful and inclusive service, and for their ongoing support of all who wear uniforms, past and present. I also acknowledge and thank master of ceremonies Sergeant David Hockey of No. 3 Squadron RAAF Base Williamtown and the catafalque party from Singleton School of Infantry, commanded by Sergeant Eric Vincent.

I also pay a special tribute to the guest speaker at the event, who was an incredible speaker. He spoke with such passion, not just about his own person history in Maitland and his forefathers who had been lost in war, but also about those who have been profoundly impacted and lost in most recent conflicts past the year 2000. It was very moving and, I think, brought a whole different perspective to people who had often thought of Anzac Day as centred only on the events at Gallipoli. It really brought it home to everyone that this is still a challenge for our veterans and those who still serve our nation.

At Maitland Park, over 3,000 people gathered before dawn in front of our beautifully restored Anzac cenotaph. I wish to acknowledge Maitland RSL Sub-Branch President Fred Goode, OAM, along with vice- president and master of ceremonies Nigel Cox; secretary Kristy Cox, JP; treasurer Henry Meskauskas, OAM; and all the volunteers who worked so hard to deliver such a magnificent and significant commemoration there. The Maitland cenotaph was a beautiful backdrop to the event. The new lighting, campaign crosses and the accessibility improvements ensure that our community's history is both preserved and more accessible for everyone in our community.

In Morpeth, the Morpeth Anzac Day Committee and residents joined together for a poignant march and service. Despite intermittent showers, a strong crowd gathered to honour the fallen. I thank the committee and the Morpeth Museum for the Remembering Animals in War contingent, and all the volunteers for their meaningful contributions, particularly for inclusion of the donkeys. It was really great to see them out again. The local Lions Club, emergency services personnel and Rotary East Maitland also played a vital role right across our services, as did the Māori singers from Newcastle. They came to Maitland and sang the New Zealand national anthem so beautifully.

I extend special appreciation to the families who stood quietly in the crowd, holding hands or wreaths, reminding us that remembrance lives not just in the ceremony, but in people's hearts. As we continue to honour the Anzac spirit, it is vital that we recognise and remember all who have contributed to our shared history, ensuring that their stories are told and that their sacrifices are honoured and never forgotten. Lest we forget.