ANZAC Day

EACH and every year we honour the Anzac spirit. For the last 94 years, young and old have come together at commemoration services around the country, to remember those brave soldiers who gave their lives so we could live ours. We've compiled a list of major services for south-east Queensland, incorporating Brisbane, Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast, so you can honour the Anzac Spirit.The ANZAC SpiritOn the 25th of April 1915, Australian and New Zealand Army Corp troops landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey during what we call the First World War. More than 8,000 Australian soldiers were killed that morning while fighting for their country. From the bloodshed, pain and sorrow, the ANZAC legend was born that day.We call this day Anzac Day. It's a chance for both nations, Australia and New Zealand, to pause and remember all the soldiers that fought and died not only in WWI but in all wars. At ceremonies across the nation, The Ode is recited at dawn ANZAC Day services. It originated from a poem called For the Fallen, written by the English poet Laurence Binyon. This verse has been used to commemorate ANZAC Day at services in Australia since 1921.ANZAC Day CeremoniesWHEN the ANZAC soldiers first landed on the shores of Gallipoli the soft glow of dawn was the only light troops had. Although it made vision difficult, it was considered the best time to launch an attack. It was in those peaceful moments, before full light, that soldiers felt at most ease. In honour of these men, Australians and New Zealanders alike remember these men; for their courage, bravery and their sacrifice.After hymns are recited and the ode is read, wreaths of red poppies are usually laid beside the names of relatives who were killed in wars. Layer upon layers of wreaths are often left at the end of each Anzac Day in a show of respect for fallen diggers.


ANZAC Biscuits
There are a few theories on the origins of ANZAC biscuits (or ANZAC Cookies for Americans) but it is certain that they came about during the First World War, around 1914/15.

Some say that they started as biscuits made by the Troops in the trenches with provisions they had at hand to relieve the boredom of their battle rations. And some say they came about due to resourceful of the women on the "home front" in an endeavour to make a treat for their loved ones that would survive the long journey by post to the war front.
There is even the suggestion that they originated from Scottish Oatmeal Cakes which is entirely possible. Whatever the origin, they have won the hearts of all Aussies the globe over as the pseudo National Biscuit.
And here is how to make them, it is dead simple. If I can make them, anyone can!
Ingredients
· 1 cup plain flour
· 1 cup rolled oats (regular oatmeal) uncooked
· 1 cup desiccated coconut
· 1 cup brown sugar
· 1/2 cup butter
· 2 tbsp golden syrup (or honey)
· 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
· 2 tbsp boiling water
Method
· Combine the flour (sifted), oats, coconut and sugar in a bowl.
· Melt the butter and Golden Syrup (or honey) in a saucepan over a low heat..
· Mix the bicarbonate of soda with the water and add to the butter and Golden Syrup.
· Pour the liquids into the dry ingredients and mix well.
· Spoon dollops of mixture, about the size of a walnut shell, onto a greased tin leaving as much space again between dollops to allow for spreading.
· Bake in a moderate oven, 180C / 350F, for 15-20 minutes.
· Cool on a wire rack and seal in airtight containers.
Tips
· The American tablespoon is a little smaller than the British tablespoon, so be generous with your Golden Syrup (or Honey) and Water.
· If you have any thoughts of keeping the biscuits for any length of time I suggest you keep them in a padlocked container!
For a little variety you may wish to add 2 teaspoons of ginger spice or even Wattle Seeds, a recent addition but don't ask me where to get them.
Mmmm, ANZAC Biscuits.