Local artist Ashley Chaloner is honoured to paint for the Cook Islands Returned Services Association (RSA) a special piece for the upcoming ANZAC Day event.

ANZAC Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, a day for both solemn reflection and national pride, recognising all service members.

And Chaloner says, “ANZAC Day holds deep meaning for so many in our community, and to contribute through art is both humbling and meaningful. It’s a privilege to create something that helps honour and remember the sacrifices of our service men and women.”

She began working on the piece about three weeks ago, and it is on track to be completed in time for ANZAC Day.

“It’s been a focused and heartfelt process, and I’ve poured a lot of thought and care into every detail to ensure it’s ready to honour the occasion.

“The highlight for me has been the chance to reflect on the meaning of ANZAC Day while creating something that can hopefully honour that. I’m just grateful to be able to contribute in this way. I’m really looking forward to sharing it with everyone on the day.”

A challenge for Chaloner has been to ensure that the mural “truly reflects the significance of ANZAC Day”.

“It’s not always easy to find the right balance, but I’ve been doing my best to stay focused on what the day represents and how to honour it through the artwork,” Chaloner said.

Meanwhile, ANZAC Day is observed every year on April 25 to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who served and died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations and “the contribution and suffering of all those who have served”.

It is a commemoration of the anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand troops at Gallipoli, Turkey on April 25 in 1915.

Dawn services are held across both nations, reflecting the time of the original Gallipoli landing.

For Rarotonga, the Dawn Service by the Government of the Cook Islands and the Cook Islands Returned Services Association (RSA) will start its Dawn Parade fall-in at 0530 hours at the eastern side of the Ministry of Justice building.

All ex-service and serving men and women including visiting personnel are invited to march.

At 6am the March On parade involving veterans, active service members, and descendants will begin.

Following the laying of the wreaths and the closing of the ceremony, light refreshments will be provided at the site.

After the Dawn Parade, the RSA will host a commemorative gathering of the family of Tetuanui Arapari (Fariu), WWI veteran in the RSA Cemetery.

The presentation of Life Membership Awards to two RSA Executive Committee, and the unveiling of a commemorative poppy will also be held.

Poppies are available at the RSA (opposite the International airport), and on the counters of the CITC stores, hotels, and most shops around the island.