Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said the lighting was supported by the NSW Returned & Services League (RSL) of Australia and symbolises the different branches of the armed services and the various theatres in which they have served.
“The Cenotaph is Martin Place’s most recognised feature and the very location where thousands of Sydney’s soldiers enlisted into the Australian Armed Forces for World War I. It is fitting in the Centenary of ANZAC that the world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas embraces it as an important part of its program,” Mr Ayres said.
“The lighting is reminiscent of the various environments in which our soldiers have fought, from the poppy fields of Europe, to the deserts of the Middle East and the jungles of Asia.
“Taking viewers on a journey from the break of dawn to the final sunset bugle call, the lighting of the Cenotaph ensures the monument remains a place for quiet reflection and remembrance during Vivid Sydney,” Mr Ayres added.
Rod White AM RFD, State President of the RSL’s NSW branch said the lighting is an important tribute.
“Following last year’s respectful treatment of the Martin Place Cenotaph for Vivid Sydney, the RSL was supportive of the monument being lit again this year,” Mr White said.
“We are delighted with this year’s projection, and feel it does justice to the importance of the Cenotaph and the dedication of the many servicemen and servicewomen whom it honours.”
The Cenotaph will be lit with the evocative Vivid Sydney projections from 6pm to midnight until 8 June.
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