City of Playford is honouring past and present service personnel as part of its ANZAC Day commemorations.
Commemorations will begin with an overnight youth vigil ceremony, hosted by Mayor Glenn Docherty, on Thursday 24 April at 6:30 pm at Smithfield Memorial Gardens, Anderson Walk, Smithfield.
A Dawn Service, led by Pastor Bryan Sellars, will take place at 6:00 am Friday 25 April at the Cross of Remembrance, Smithfield Memorial Gardens, Anderson Walk, Smithfield.
Mayor Glenn Docherty welcomed everyone to attend Playford's ANZAC Day commemorations and join in remembering, reflecting, and honouring this chapter of our history.
"2025 marks 110 years since the Gallipoli landing at what is now called ANZAC Cove. More than 8,000 young Australians lost their lives during the campaign. We honour their sacrifice, and we remember and reflect on the devastating toll of war."
This year also commemorates the 75th anniversary of Australia's involvement in the Korean War (1950-1953), during which over 18,000 Australian military personnel served alongside United States forces.
"A minute silence and the recitation of The Ode are integral parts of ANZAC commemorations, serving as a mark of respect and a moment of reflection, while honouring those that have served their country in times of war."
The City of Playford is proud to host commemorations with active youth participation involving young people aged between 12 to 18 years leading the overnight vigil.
Local service groups deliver the overnight vigil at the Cross of Remembrance at Smithfield. These groups include Ridley District Scouts, St John Cadets, Playford District Girl Guides and Air Force Cadets. Members participate in the mounting of the Honour Guard, a flag raising ceremony and hat placing ceremony. Groups then guard the Cross of Remembrance in 20-minute shifts until the dawn service on ANZAC morning and the standing down of the youth guard.
"Engaging our young people helps pass on the ANZAC stories and the realities of conflict to the next generation, working to foster a more peaceful world," said the Mayor.
- Overnight Vigil - Thursday, 24 April 2025 6:30pm Cross of Remembrance Memorial, Smithfield Memorial Gardens Anderson Walk, Smithfield
- Dawn Service - Friday, 25 April 2025 6:00am Cross of Remembrance Memorial, Smithfield Memorial Gardens Anderson Walk, Smithfield
