Photos: George Tsotsos.
One hundred years ago on 11 November 1918, the Western Front fell silent as guns were laid down and an Armistice was signed, bringing four bloody years of brutal conflict to an end.
More than 330,000 Australians served overseas, and more than 60,000 of them died on foreign shores during the first World War.
Each year on 11 November, Australians observe one minute’s silence at 11 am, in memory of those who died or suffered in all wars and armed conflicts. Here is how to commemorate the centenary of the Armistice that ended World War I at the Australian War Memorial on Remembrance Day.
62,000 Poppies Display
Time: 9 am – 10 pm
A display of 62,000 handcrafted, red poppies on the Memorial’s grounds mark the centrepiece of this year’s commemorations, symbolically representing Australian lives lost in the first World War. Each poppy has been created by a volunteer as part of the 5,000 poppies project and represents an Australian life lost in the war.
Visitors can walk around the Sculpture Garden on the Memorial’s western grounds to view this spectacular and moving display. Complementing the handcrafted poppies display is a moving musical program assembled by Memorial artist in residence Chris Latham.
Each poppy has been created by a volunteer as part of the 5,000 poppies project and represents an Australian life lost in the war.
National Ceremony
Time: 10:30 am – 12 pm
The Australian War Memorial will also host the nation’s key commemoration, which includes a formal wreath laying and will be attended by many high-level dignitaries, diplomats, school students, as well as thousands of members of the general public. Australia’s Federation Guard and the Royal Military College Band will be on parade along with a special commemorative address.
Tickets for the National Ceremony are now booked out but the public is welcome to bring their own chair or rug to view the proceedings from outside of the ticketed seating areas or via one of the large screens located in the Memorial grounds.
Last Post Ceremony
Time: 4:55 pm
The Last Post Ceremony begins with the Australian national anthem followed by the piper’s lament. Visitors are invited to lay wreaths and floral tributes beside the Pool of Reflection. An individual’s story is told, and the Ode is recited by Australian Defence Force personnel. The ceremony ends with the sounding of the Last Post.
For more information, head to the Australian War Memorial website.
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