Known to locals as the most significant holidays in the Australian year!
Anzac Day takes place on the 25th April this year and is a day for Australians and New Zealanders to commemorate all those who have served and died in conflicts in the past. Australians from all over unite to remember those who have served before them; those who have made Australia the country it is today. If you’re visiting at this time of year, expect to see a flurry of parades, marching bands, services, and events to celebrate this important day.
How Anzac Day Began
The date has a significant meaning behind it, known for being the date the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, who were nicknamed the Anzacs, landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula. The army set out to capture the Gallipoli peninsula and Constantinople, which is now known as Istanbul in Turkey. However, once landing, the soldiers faced fierce resistance from the Ottoman Turkish soldiers. Leading to the campaign to be stretched out into an eight-month-long campaign. Over 8,000 Australian soldiers died during this battle, and since then, Anzac day has been used to remember the sacrifice and courage of those who had died in the war.
What can you do on Anzac Day in Melbourne?
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Get Involved in the Dawn Service
The Dawn Service takes place throughout the country and is a time to reflect on past wars and conflicts, and to remember those who were lost in them. In Melbourne, the service will be at the Shrine of Remembrance and will start at 6am.
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Lend a Hand at an RSL Branch
One of the main aims of Anzac Day is to celebrate the veterans who fought at Gallipoli and other battles, and to raise money to make their lives better. During the day you can head over to Melbourne’s RSL branches and help out for the day. Not only will you be providing a great support to the community, but you’ll also get to learn more about this prolific day and what it means to the country.
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Get Your Baking Mitts on
Many Australians spend Anzac Day with their families, enjoying home-cooked meals and baked goods. Join in with the local festivities by baking up your own selection of treats and sharing them out amongst the community.
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Watch the Anzac Day Match
Sporting events are a large part of Anzac Day in Australia, and this year you can watch Melbourne Storm take on the New Zealand Warriors at Melbourne’s AAMI Park. If cricket’s more your thing, head to the Melbourne Cricket Ground to watch Collingwood play Essendon.
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Watch Gallipoli, the Film
This Australian classic is brought out every Anzac Day. Settle down with a hearty home-cooked meal and some baked treats and watch this 1981 Mel Gibson film that follows two Australian sprinters who are called up for duty in Gallipoli.
Anzac Day is a really important part of the Australian year, with plenty of activities going on for all the family. Get involved in the events taking place throughout Melbourne and learn more about this historic narrative.
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.