The much-loved Newcastle and Hunter Combined Schools ANZAC Service marked its 70th anniversary at the Civic Theatre, attracting about 3,000 students.
The annual ceremony brought together public, Catholic and independent institutions from across the region on Tuesday 31 March, with pupils playing a central role in researching, writing and delivering the program.
Artistic director Dr Shane Bransdon said the milestone year built on the event’s strong reputation while introducing new ways for youngsters to engage.
“While the students always watch wreaths being laid as part of the service and, thanks to the presentation, understand the symbolism of this act, they got to lay their own tributes in 2026,” he explained.
“At the conclusion, in the Civic Theatre, each pupil made their way to the Cenotaph in Civic Park and laid their own red poppy.
“It’s one thing to see an act of reverence taking place but to actively participate in it, we believe, will be considerably more enriching for the students.
“The imagery of 3,000 red poppies laid at the foot of the Cenotaph was a moving visual reminder of why we come together each year to mark this solemn occasion.”
For the first time, student bagpipers joined the catafalque party of Air Force cadets at the Cenotaph, adding another layer to the commemorative experience.
Trinity Catholic College pupil Gabe Widseth said taking part in the service highlighted the magnitude of remembering those who served.
“Anzac Day is really important to me because it allows us to remember the traditions and the people who fought for our country,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“It’s about humility and continuing that tradition.”
Each attendee also received a traditional Anzac biscuit, donated by Woolworths, along with a recipe to take home.
This year’s theme, Lest We Forget – Carrying the Flame of Remembrance, focused on how Australians commemorate Anzac Day, both through public memorials and personal acts of remembrance.
Twelve Year 11 students from across the Hunter spent months preparing the service through workshops exploring Anzac traditions, key symbols and how remembrance has evolved over time.
The group also travelled to Canberra, visiting the Australian War Memorial and National Museum of Australia, where they took part in research sessions and attended the Last Post ceremony.
The structure of the local service was also updated for 2026, with storytelling and formal elements interwoven and supported by interactive projections to create a more immersive experience.
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- Kurri Kurri students take on Parliament
- Big crowd steps back in time at Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival
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