Commemorating ANZAC Day in Daylesford
ANZAC Day, held annually on April 25th, is a day of remembrance where Australians and New Zealanders honour the sacrifices made by members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) and all who served in conflicts, wars, and peacekeeping missions. In Daylesford and surrounding towns such as Kyneton, Creswick, and Clunes, this significant occasion is marked by moving ceremonies, marches, and gatherings that bring communities together in reflection and gratitude.
ANZAC Day in Daylesford
In Daylesford, ANZAC Day begins with a Dawn Service at the Cenotaph, where locals and visitors gather in the early hours to pay their respects in a quiet and reflective setting. The service, typically held at 6:30 am, is followed by a traditional gunfire breakfast hosted by the Daylesford RSL. This breakfast provides an opportunity for attendees to connect and share in the ANZAC spirit.
Later in the morning, the ANZAC Day March winds through the streets of Daylesford, beginning at the Town Hall at approximately 10:30 am. The march culminates in the Main ANZAC Day Service at the Cenotaph, featuring speeches, a wreath-laying ceremony, and moments of silence to honor the fallen. The Daylesford RSL then opens its doors for a community lunch, welcoming everyone to continue the day of remembrance.
Commemorations in Kyneton and Surrounding Towns
In nearby Kyneton, ANZAC Day is marked by a similar series of events. The day begins with a Dawn Service at the Kyneton Cenotaph, offering a serene and reflective start to the day. Later, the town hosts a Morning March through its historic streets, concluding with a commemorative service at the Cenotaph.
Other surrounding towns also host ANZAC Day events, each bringing their unique community touch:
- Creswick: A Dawn Service at the Cenotaph is followed by a breakfast and a later march and service.
- Clunes: This historic town holds a Dawn Service, a special ceremony at Soldiers’ Graves in the cemetery, and a march leading to the Cenotaph.
- Hepburn Springs and Eganstown: These smaller towns hold intimate services at their respective memorials, perfect for quieter reflection.
How to Get Involved
Whether you attend the Dawn Service, participate in a march, or pause for a moment of silence, ANZAC Day offers an opportunity for everyone to pay tribute. Visitors are welcome at all services and encouraged to join the local community in honoring this day of national significance.
For those staying in the region, local venues like Daylesford Cider often open on ANZAC Day, providing a relaxed space to gather post-services. It’s a wonderful way to connect with locals and reflect on the day’s meaning.
Plan Your ANZAC Day in Daylesford
While exact timings for the 2025 ANZAC Day events in Daylesford, Kyneton, and other towns are yet to be confirmed, the following resources can provide updates as the date approaches:
- Daylesford RSL: www.daylesfordrsl.com.au
- Kyneton RSL: www.kynetonrsl.com.au
- Hepburn Shire Council: www.hepburn.vic.gov.au
- Clunes RSL: www.clunesrsl.com
ANZAC Day is a time for reflection, unity, and gratitude. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking part in the commemorations in Daylesford or its neighboring towns is a meaningful way to honor the enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit.
Lest We Forget.