ANZAC Day is the one day we can step out of a self-centred society and think about others, Reverend John Wessel said.

But the retired Bilambil Heights Uniting Church minister and ex-member of the 41st Battalion called on the dawn service crowd of 1500 people at Chris Cunningham Park in Tweed Heads yesterday to respect the Anzacs beyond April 25.

“I hope the importance of this day, the story of respect, may become the story of your life and mine and thus, through us, the story of our nation. It is only then when we will truly honour the fallen,” Rev Wessel said.

“Today, thousands gather across this land; gather to respect all who gave their life so that others, you and I, may live in freedom. That is why we are all here today.

“The meaning of Anzac Day needs to be heard time and time again until it takes root in our national and personal lives.”

Rev Wessel especially addressed all young people in the audience.

“Carry into your life the story of this day, the story of respect,” he said.

“Carry respect into your homes, your schools, your sporting fields, your workplaces, even to the way you operate your automobile.

“In fact, respect all whom you meet along your life’s journey.”

Tweed MP Geoff Provest called Anzac Day one of the most important days of the year during a short address.

“It’s an opportunity to preserve the spirit of the Anzacs,” Mr Provest said.