Possible Clues:

• Dusk's opposite
• Pad set up; new beginning
• When a duel may be scheduled
• Wand (anag.)
• It's shortest at the Equator
• -- Fraser, Australian swimmer and gold medallist in three Olympic Games
• Start of a new day or era
• When most roosters crow
• Joy rival
• -- French, Geraldine Granger in 'The Vicar of Dibley'