Stand at Dawn may alter Anzac events
AN Anzac Day spent in lockdown could change the way the day is marked in future, a University of Otago academic says.
For the first time, Anzac dawn ceremonies were cancelled due to Covid19 and many New Zealanders instead stood at dawn, at their letterboxes, front doors, or in their lounges.
University of Otago department of marketing Associate Prof Maree Thyne coresearched a 2015 study of 1152 Australians and New Zealanders who attended or viewed Anzac Day commemorative events, investigating what drove them to attend or view a live telecast of a commemorative event.
It found attendance at Anzac Day commemorations was a social activity, and viewed as an experience to be shared with others.
In light of Anzac Day in lockdown, Prof Thyne coauthored a piece with Victoria University Melbourne researcher AnneMarie Hede, Stand At Dawn: Apart but together as one.
Prof Thyne said the newfound concept of standing at dawn, in driveways or homes, had the potential to reignite a new and contemporary interest in Anzac Day.
“It provides people the opportunity to experience the event together with their bubble, their family or other bubble members, and possibly also the wider neighbourhood — meeting at mailboxes, driveways or balconies.”
Participants were encouraged to tune into national radio stations and listen live to the official dawn service, as well as show support by posting photos and videos of their experience standing at dawn.
“Together, even if apart, we can show solidarity in commemorating this very important event and it might indeed turn out to be a catalyst for increasing firsttime and repeat attendees at live events in the future.”
While Anzac Day commemorations were popular during the centenary years from 2014 to 2018, attendance over the following years was originally thought likely to wane, but could gain newfound popularity.
“Stand at Dawn has the capacity to reignite a new and contemporary interest in Anzac Day in, and for, the 21st century.”