Marching on: Rain fails to dampen Anzac spirit as returned soldiers parade through Sydney (ABC)

ABC The band marches on despite wet weather for Sydney's Anzac Day march.

Rain has not stopped crowds gathering in Sydney for the Anzac Day march through the city's streets, nor has it deterred returned soldiers.

People holding umbrellas and waving Australian flags have created a guard of honour along George Street for veterans taking part in this year's parade.

Many are family members watching their loved ones who served.

"My father's marching. He served in the Navy for nine years so he thought he should march and keep on the tradition," one woman said.

"We're here to support all the diggers and everyone who makes our country what it is."

Earlier, record crowds of close to 10,000 people filled Sydney's Martin Place for the dawn service.

The Cenotaph was overflowing with people spilling into surrounding streets.

Organisers say no matter how big the crowds get the event will always be held at the Cenotaph.

The New South Wales president of the Dawn Service Trust, Don Brown, was pleased to see so many young faces among the early morning crowd.

He says this year was an important practice run for next year's Anzac centenary service.

"It'll be even bigger," he said.

"This year we've had the two additional screens put up in George Street there, we hope to have that again next year.

"There has been talk about if it got too big they'd have to shift the venue - that won't happen.

"This is where it started. They can do a relay to Darling Harbour or the Domain if they wish but this is where it, this is where we live and it'll be here next year as well."

World War II veteran Dennis Davis took four generations of his family, including his great-grandchildren to the dawn service.

"Fantastic! Not the first time I've been here, of course," he said.

"I can remember the first time I came my daughter here was about the size of these two."

Wreaths were laid by guests including New South Wales Governor Marie Bashir and Premier Mike Baird.

Others chose to remember the fallen at services outside the city with thousands gathering on Sydney's Bondi Beach at dawn and at local RSL clubs.

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