Thousands of residents from across Far North Queensland have embraced the region's proud Anzac legacy, despite COVID-19 restrictions.
The diggers were not forgotten as people stood in their driveways and balconies, many holding candles and torches, as they observed a minute's silence as the sun rose.
The RSL's "Light Up the Dawn" campaign was launched in response to the cancellation of all Anzac Day marches, because of social distancing requirements in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
It is the first time ceremonies had been cancelled in Australia since the Spanish flu hit in 1919.
For more Anzac Day coverage from the ABC, visit our special edition here.
Cairns RSL president Peter Hayton said the enormous response to the campaign was moving.
"It's certainly not the same but it has been very heartening to see so many people commemorate the day," Mr Hayton said.
"We've seen many people who normally wouldn't attend a dawn service or march out on the street."
He said the RSL had been telephoning veterans who would normally march, to check in on them.
"A lot of the veterans only come out once a year and they are really missing the camaraderie, being together, being able to swap stories over a beer," he said.
"That's probably going to be the hardest thing for them because many of them look forward to it all year."
The Last Post still rings out across the far north
The Last Post played from driveway
Cairns resident John Sexton normally plays The Last Post to a crowd of hundreds at various Anzac Day ceremonies in the city.
This year, he donned his band uniform and father's World War II medals and performed at the bottom of his driveway, in Freshwater.
"We had lots of people come out and watch from their driveways and there's also been a lot of people who have called me to say they heard it," Mr Sexton said.
" I am happy that we have not forgotten the day."
Family tribute
At Mareeba, lime grower Tammy Tiraboschi and her family commemorated the day at home.
"We usually attend every Anzac Day parade, so this year was certainly very unique, " Ms Tiraboschi said.
"Our kids got involved, they made wreaths and we had our minute's silence."
Mr Hayton said planning for next year's Anzac Day services was already underway.
"It's going to be bigger and better than ever, that we can promise."
