The early morning Anzac Day commemorations were not cut short, with the service running as it traditionally would despite rain steadily coming down on those who had turned out to the park.

Nelson Bay RSL Sub-Branch vice president Tom Lupton conducted the service.

"We again gather to to pay homage to all those who served, especially those who paid the supreme sacrifice in service to our country," Mr Lupton said in his dawn service address.

"We are commemorating the centenary of the landing at Gallipoli by Australia and New Zealand's components of that battle. We saw the rise of the spirit of Anzac.

"We now find ourselves in 2018 and the centenary of the end of that dreadful conflict. It was the war to end all wars. Unfortunately it was not the end of conflicts for our servicemen and women.

"Our men and women have gone on to uphold the great traditions of honour, loyalty and sacrifice in wars in Korea, Malaya, Borneo, Vietnam, Somalia and those that serve as we gather here this morning in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"I ask that you give thought to those who have served and those still serving, especially those who paid the supreme sacrifice, those who bear the scars of war and those who bear the scars that cannot be seen.

"I would also like to pay tribute to the families and loved ones of those who have served and are serving still. Let us remember that the essential spirit of Anzac is duty, honour and above all mateship."

10.30am: Assemble at Nelson Bay Bowling Club for 10.40am main march to Apex Park.

10.50am: Main service at Apex Park.

Noon: Luncheon at Diggers for sub-branch members, uniformed personnel and partners.