Each year in the lead-up to ANZAC Day, families across Australia take a moment to remember in their own way.
For many, that moment is the ANZAC Field of Remembrance.
What is the ANZAC Field of Remembrance?
The ANZAC Field of Remembrance began in 1952. It was created by war widows who wanted a place to lay their own tributes ahead of ANZAC Day.
It remains a deeply personal act of remembrance.
Each tribute carries a name — and behind that name is a person who was loved, and a family who continues to carry their memory.
This is one of the few moments in the commemorations calendar where families are not watching from the side-lines. They are at the centre of a service.
Why remembrance in ANZAC Month matters
ANZAC Day holds national meaning. But the days leading to it matter too. For widows and veteran families, remembrance is personal, it isn’t just a public commemoration.
The ANZAC Field of Remembrance creates space to pause ahead of ANZAC Day. It allows families to remember in their own time, in their own way, alongside others who understand.
It is a moment to reflect on service, loss, and the ongoing impact that service has on families.
Three ways to take part
This ANZAC Month, there are three ways to take part in the ANZAC Field of Remembrance.
- Lay a tribute in the Virtual Field of Remembrance: You can add a name, a message, and a symbol. Each tribute becomes part of a permanent Field that remains open year-round.
- Attend the Sydney service or watch the livestream: The service will be held on 23 April at St Andrew’s Cathedral. Families can attend in person or take part from home.
- Join a regional gathering: Across regional NSW, families come together to watch the service and lay tributes locally. Registrations are essential, call us on (02) 9267 6577 or email warwidows@fov.org.au.
Each option offers a way to remember and be part of something shared.
A place to return to
The Virtual Field of Remembrance extends this tradition.
It creates a place where tributes remain visible over time. Families can return on anniversaries, birthdays, ANZAC Day, or any day that matters.
It is a simple way to ensure a name is seen, remembered, and carried forward.
Who will you remember?
This ANZAC Month, take a moment to lay a tribute, attend a service or join a gathering.
Because every name represents a life that is still remembered and carried by someone.
