ANZAC DAY MESSAGE 2026
- 20 April, 2026
April 25 is a solemn day when Australians pause to remember and reflect on the courage of our first Anzacs and the sacrifices made by every man and woman who has worn the uniform and served our nation.
The ANZAC legend was born in the early hours of 25th of April 1915 when troops from Australia and New Zealand landed on the beach in Turkey that we now call ANZAC Cove. Maryborough man Major Duncan Chapman was the first ashore and was joined by many of his comrades from towns and farming communities throughout Wide Bay.
The ANZAC troops clung to this small beachhead valiantly for almost eight months and suffered enormously through devastating losses, battle casualties, disease, and hunger. But they endured.
When the time came to withdraw to the boats, it was successfully conducted through detailed planning, good communication, and disciplined military skills and tactics.
As the ANZAC’s departed, they vowed that the many feats of valour and the sacrifice of the fallen – the 8709 Australians and 2779 New Zealanders who lost their lives – would be forever remembered.
And they have been remembered. The first ANZAC Day service occurred 12 months later in 1916, and more than a century later, Australia still honours our first ANZACS and those who have followed in their footsteps in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions around the globe.
In 2026, the Australian Army and Navy commemorate 125 years of service. This year and also marks 75 years since the introduction of the National Service Scheme and 25 years since Australia first committed troops to Afghanistan in the wake of the horrific 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The current conflicts in many parts of the world remind us that our safety, security and freedom can not be taken for granted, and we offer gratitude to our current defence personnel who continue to serve our nation to protect our values and way of life.
I encourage everyone in Wide Bay to attend a service on Anzac Day, or take the time to pause, reflect, and remember those who have served, and have given their lives for our country. Like those who came before them, and those who continue to serve in defence of our country today, we must ensure their stories are told; their legacy is remembered; and that their courage and sacrifice are never forgotten.
Lest We Forget.
Mr O’Brien will commemorate Anzac Day at Gympie and Maryborough.
