Cpt Lybrand not only paid tribute to the first Anzacs from Gallipoli 102 years ago, he acknowledged all those Australian and New Zealand men and women who had lost their lives in war and active duty.

He also told the 2000 people gathered at the Apex Park memorial about a most significant moment in navy history.

HMAS ships Perth, Yarra, Kuttabul, Voyager and Armidale were all lost in 1942 along with 600 men.

"This year [2017] holds special significance as the 75th anniversary of the darkest days in the Royal Australian Navy's history," Cpt Lybrand said.

He also spoke about what was a growing sense of trepidation among Australians that year as war spread to the Asia Pacific after the bombing of Pearl Harbour.

And on February 19, 1942, 235 people were killed in Darwin, the result of an air raid.

Nelson Bay RSL Sub Branch vice president Tony Lupton estimated that more than 1500 people had turned out for the dawn service and more than 2000 at the 11am service.

"It was good to see so many children take part, even at dawn," he said.

Among them were Tomaree Public School students Thalia Young and Tyler Shaw who assisted with the service.

The Seaside Singers were also on hand to sing hymns.

Wing Commander Alan Williams led the gathering in prayer.