RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration
Where
Anzac Memorial, Hyde Park
When
Thursday 4 April, 11am
Contact
RSL NSW
1300 679 775
Service Information
The RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Commemoration was first held in 1953, co-hosted by RSL NSW and the Department of Education. Over the years the service has expanded to Catholic Schools NSW and the Association of Independent Schools NSW.
Proceedings held at the Anzac Memorial Hyde Park will be delivered entirely by school students including the Master of Ceremonies, keynote address, readings, and musical accompaniment. The Service also includes an Inspection of the Guard by the official party, The Ode, The Last Post, and Rouse.
The service aims to educate primary and secondary school students about Australia’s military history, whilst paying respect to the service and sacrifice of servicemen and women of the Australian Defence Force. Historically over 100 schools, with up to 1,500 students and teachers have attended this commemoration annually.
This service is open to the general public.
Art Competition
To mark the 70th Anniversary of this service in 2023, RSL NSW, the Department of Education, Catholic Schools NSW and the Association of Independent Schools NSW introduced an art competition to NSW school students. This competition will continue in 2024 with two artworks being selected for the cover of the 2024 service program. You can find out more about the RSL and Schools Remember ANZAC Art Competition and Exhibition here.
School Information
Recommended arrival time: by 10:30am
Ceremony time: 11:00am to 12:00pm
Dress: School uniform
Weather update: the forecast is for a maximum of 23 degrees and high chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon. The service will still proceed in wet weather unless lighting or high winds occur. We advise students to bring wet weather gear (umbrellas, raincoats) and also consider a blanket to sit on.
Site plan: Click here to view the site plan which outlines seating areas, bathrooms and first aid locations.
Wreath laying: During the service students will be invited to lay a wreath or floral tribute at the base of the Anzac Memorial steps, allowing schools to commemorate the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women.
This is optional and the supply/expense of a wreath or floral tribute is the responsibility of each individual school. Schools may also opt to make their own tribute.
It is requested a maximum of 2 students from each school be selected to lay the wreath or floral tribute on their school’s behalf to limit overcrowding at the Memorial steps.
Students should keep the wreath or floral tribute with them during the service and line up along either side of the Pool of Reflection when the wreath laying portion of the service is announced. Students should follow the directions of Anzac Memorial guides during the wreath laying.
Registered schools will have their names read out in alphabetical order. It is not necessary for students to wait until their school’s name is read out to lay the wreath.
Seating: Seating for students is generally on the grass/ground and pathways around the Pool of Reflection in front of the Anzac Memorial.
Access requirements: Please advise your sector representative if you have students attending that require specific access requirements. Sector representative details can be found below.
Photography: Students and staff attending the Service should be aware that photographers and videographers will be present during the service. Students attending should have appropriate permission to publish in place.
Transport and parking: The nearest railway station is Museum Station, with public buses from Circular Quay and Central Station passing Hyde Park. There are no parking facilities available near the Memorial. It is not possible for vehicles to enter and remain at or near the site. Any school buses should drop off and pick up in surrounding streets in accordance with parking, no stopping or standing and bus stop regulations.
Weather precautions: There is limited shelter at the venue. Schools attending should be aware of weather forecasts for the day and be prepared for changeable conditions. It is recommended to bring wet weather apparel, a waterproof sheet to sit on; appropriate sun protection including hat and sunscreen; and drinking water.
Security arrangements: Anzac Memorial security will be present at the event. Schools should note Hyde Park is a readily accessible public park which attracts a considerable amount of foot traffic at all times during the day.
First Aid: St John Ambulance will be in attendance.
Toilets: Portable toilets will be available at the service.
Sector contacts: Please register your school’s attendance with the relevant sector representative.
Department of Education: DoEEvents@det.nsw.edu.au
Association of Independent Schools NSW: CTuttocuore@aisnsw.edu.au
Catholic Schools NSW: Joshua.Byrne@csnsw.catholic.edu.au
Image: The Scots College Pipes and Drums performing during the service.