The AFL has pre-recorded an Anzac service inside an empty MCG which will be broadcast around Australia this Saturday.
RSL Victoria and the AFL were determined to commemorate Anzac Day despite the competition suspended due to COVID-19.
A recital of the Ode of Remembrance and a lone bugler playing the Last Post will be shown to millions of people across the country.
More than 90,000 people would normally pack into the famous ground for the traditional blockbuster between Collingwood and Essendon.
RSL Victoria state president Robert Webster is certain the service would prove powerful for audiences watching on TV even without a crowd.
"One of the things that I noticed when we were recording is that it echoes more," he told SEN.
"I think the sound, even though it's silent, the sound must be absorbed by the bodies.
"But with an empty MCG, the reflection and the sound bouncing back from concrete was absolutely spectacular."
AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan urged fans to commemorate Anzac Day even without games being played.
"This year, the RSL's message to the community is to find a way in your homes to Light up the Dawn, celebrate the ANZAC Spirit and support our veterans," McLachlan said.
"The message to football fans and the wider community this year is that ANZAC Day is not cancelled, but it is different.
"The AFL, and its clubs, are encouraging all football fans to walk outside at 6am, stand in your yard, driveway, or on your balcony and observe a minute of silence in respect of our veterans."
The MCG service will be broadcast on Channel Seven, Fox Footy and multiple online platforms.
from WWOS http://wwos.nine.com.au/afl/afl-anzac-service-recorded-in-empty-mcg/ea29702a-3c83-45fb-ab3e-7cfd0b7b137a
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