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Battle for Australia

A wreath laying to honour the service and sacrifice of those who defended Australian shores from attack in the Second World War.

Event Details

Date:
Wednesday, 6 September 2023 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Location:
Second World War Forecourt, Shrine of Remembrance, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne, VIC 3001
Details:
  • Admission is free.
  • This venue is wheelchair accessible.
  • This event is child-friendly.

This service is held annually on the first Wednesday in September and recognises the men and women who drove back the Japanese advance in the Second World War.

In 1942 and 1943, Australia and her allies fought a series of battles in South East Asia and the Pacific. These battles included the Kokoda Trail, Milne Bay and the Coral Sea. The aim was to defend Australia and push back the advancing Japanese.

After campaigning by the RSL and Battle for Australia Commemoration Committee, the first official service took place in 2008. Since then, school students have come to lay a wreath to honour the service and sacrifice of Australians and their allies.

Shrine Representative:

  • Shrine Governor Colonel John Coulson OAM RFD ED

Watch the live stream:

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