Returned servicemen and women from Sydney’s Northern Beaches will be given a VIP police escort into the CBD for the Anzac Day March next Monday (25 April 2016), NSW Police say.
This will be the 60th year diggers from the Collaroy Plateau War Veterans’ Home have been driven into the city by a fleet of Manly-Warringah Cabs, under escort by police from Northern Beaches Local Area Command and the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command.
As with any VIP police escort, the taxi motorcade will be afforded a “green-light corridor” as it proceeds along the Northern Beaches and North Shore.
This will ensure the convoy of vehicles stays together and arrives on time for the march, which starts at 9am at the intersection of Elizabeth Street and Martin Place.
“This is an important and poignant tradition not only for the men and women who will be transported under escort on the day, but also for the local community,” NSW Police North West Metropolitan Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Denis Clifford, said.
“It’s not unusual for local residents to come out of their homes as the motorcade passes, and show their respect for the veterans inside the taxis,” Assistant Commissioner Clifford said.
“I am very proud to have police from my region involved in this tradition; it is the least we can do for people who served this country in times of war.
“Thanks must also go to the taxi drivers, who will generously donate their time and vehicles to transport the veterans to the Anzac Day March.
“Other motorists may experience minor traffic disruptions during the journey, but I am sure they will be understanding and patient,” Assistant Commissioner Clifford said.
The escort will leave Collaroy at 7.30am and travel along Lantana Avenue to Veterans Parade, Heather Street, Parks Road, South Creek Road, Pittwater Road, Condamine Street, Burnt Bridge Creek Deviation, Manly Road, Spit Road, Military Road, Bradfield Highway, Cahill Expressway into Macquarie Street, Prince Albert Road, College Street, Park and Castlereagh Streets, where they will wait to connect with other veterans and taxis from other parts of the city. They will then connect with the official Anzac Day March.
For all up-to-date traffic information, including road closures and special event clearways, refer to the Live Traffic website for details: www.livetraffic.com.
For further event information, visit http://www.anzaccentenary.gov.au/events.
