By ALISON FOLETTA

Thousands of khaki-coloured swags are lined up in rows. Some have pictures of ancestors who fought in the war displayed, others are proudly waving small Australian flags.

Camp Gallipoli – an all-night commemoration of the centenary of Anzac Day, where thousands of people camped out for the night before joining together for a Dawn Service – was held across Australia last Friday night.

Ex-Army soldier Brett and his wife Robyn spent the night on the soaked grass of Melbourne Showgrounds along with about 5000 others.  It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, they said.

Kerri and Sophie huddled together in a single swag, trying to continue the remembrance for all soldiers, past and present.

Some were not so keen to spend the night outside in the rain. Sandi, Heather and Keith spent the night undercover at the showgrounds, enjoying the time together and honouring those who serve now, like Heather and Keith's father. Sandi bought the Camp Gallipoli tickets as a gift for him.

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Mother and daughter Carol and Jessica have attended a dawn service for the past eight years with the Girl Guides. Jessica’s uncle, who served in Vietnam, has lung cancer and was unable to march this year. They came to Camp Gallipoli in his honour.

Scout members Hannah, 19, Yashna, 19, and Ezgi, 20, have attended dawn services  for 13 years in memory of the Scouts who served in the war. Not a lot of people remember them, they say.

Many families brought their children along to continue the tradition and to learn about the Anzacs.

Katrina and Stephen came with their children, wanting them to experience the dawn service and learn some history. They continued the celebration with a trip to an Anzac Day football match later in the day.

Many of the volunteers at Camp Gallipoli  served in war, like Bruce, or have family members who served. Ian had family at Kokoda and the Vietnam War, and David and Judy wanted  to show their respect and remembrance.

Despite the rain and chill, many beanie-clad, blanket-wrapped people braved the overnight stay. By the 5.30am bugle call, most were up after an uncomfortable sleep.

“It seemed fitting,” Andrew said, who brought Jacob, 11, to the event. The rain and the cold, concrete floor didn't dampen their enthusiasm.

“We are lucky, they didn’t have what we have – good swags and coffee on tap,” Andrew said.