ANZAC 2026

“A Day of Remembrance, Unity, and Deep Emotion”

On 25 April 2026, the Brookfield Showgrounds once again became a place of profound
remembrance as the community gathered to honour ANZAC Day — a day etched into the
heart of Australia and New Zealand. From the early hours of the morning, the grounds filled
with veterans, serving personnel, families, young people, and dignitaries, all united by a
shared purpose, to remember the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering spirit of the ANZACs.
The dawn service set a solemn tone, its silence broken only by the soft rustle of flags and
the quiet reflection of those who stood shoulder to shoulder in the cool morning air. As the
sun rose, the parade commenced, bringing together exservice organisations from across
Queensland. Among them marched the Sri Lanka ExServicemen’s Association (Queensland
Branch), proudly carrying their colours and honouring not only the ANZACs but also the
brave men and women who served across the Commonwealth.

This year’s march carried a particularly emotional weight. As our contingent made its way
toward the grounds, applause rippled through the crowd — a heartfelt gesture of gratitude
that resonated deeply with every marcher. In one unforgettable moment, a middleaged lady
stood by the roadside, tears streaming down her face as she clapped. Her emotion captured
the essence of ANZAC Day, remembrance that lives not only in ceremony, but in the hearts
of everyday Australians.

The Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association was honoured to play a meaningful role in the
official proceedings. Major General (Retired) Shyaman Kulathunge and Wing Commander
Nalin Wickremasinghe (Ex-SLAF), President of SLESA Queensland, laid floral wreaths on
behalf of the association. Their tribute symbolised the enduring bonds between nations that
fought side by side, and the shared sacrifices that continue to unite us across generations.
This connection is rooted in history. During the First World War, members of the Ceylon
Planters Rifle Corps — a volunteer regiment from then Ceylon — were attached to ANZAC
units during the Gallipoli campaign. Though small in number, they endured the same
unforgiving terrain, the same hardships, and the same losses. Their service remains a proud
chapter in Sri Lanka’s military heritage and a reminder of the global unity forged in times of
conflict.

Throughout the day, families enjoyed community activities, live music, and traditional ANZAC
Day refreshments. Children listened to stories of bravery, ensuring that the legacy of the
ANZACs continues to be passed down with respect and understanding.

The 2026 Brookfield ANZAC Day ceremony stood as a powerful testament to remembrance,
unity, and shared history. It reminded us that ANZAC Day is not merely a date on the
calendar — it is a living tradition, carried forward by communities who refuse to let the
sacrifices of the past fade into silence.

Nalin Wickremasinghe
President – Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association Queensland

Lest We Forget