The City of Playford will honour past and present Defence Force and service personnel through its ANZAC Day commemorations in April 2026, bringing the community together in reflection, remembrance and respect.
Commemorations will begin with an Overnight Vigil, hosted by Mayor Glenn Docherty, on Friday 24 April from 6.30pm at Smithfield Memorial Gardens, Anderson Walk, Smithfield.
A Dawn Service, led by Pastor Bryan Sellars, will follow at 6.00am on Saturday 25 April at the Cross of Remembrance, Smithfield Memorial Gardens.
In 2026, ANZAC Day marks the 111th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings. On this day, Australians pause to commemorate all who have served in times of war, conflict and peace, and to honour the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said ANZAC Day continues to hold deep significance for the Playford community.
"ANZAC Day gives us an opportunity to come together as a community to pay our respects to those that have served our nation and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice valiantly defending our freedom and way of life," the Mayor said.
The City of Playford is proud to host commemorations that place a strong emphasis on youth participation, with young people aged 12 to 18 years playing a central role in the Overnight Vigil.
Local service groups deliver the Overnight Vigil at the Cross of Remembrance, including Ridley District Scouts, St. John Ambulance Northern Youth, Playford District Girl Guides and Air Force Cadets.
Participants form an Honour Guard, conduct a flag raising ceremony and undertake a hat placing ceremony, before guarding the Cross of Remembrance in 20-minute shifts throughout the night until standing down at the Dawn Service the following morning.
Mayor Docherty said involving young people is a vital part of keeping the ANZAC legacy alive.
"By engaging our young people in these commemorations, we help ensure our service men and women continue to be honoured by future generations and their stories and sacrifice are not forgotten," he said.
Members of the community and visitors to Playford are invited to attend both the Overnight Vigil and the Dawn Service to pay their respects.
Event Details
Overnight Vigil
Friday 24 April 2026
6.30pm
Cross of Remembrance Memorial
Smithfield Memorial Gardens, Anderson Walk, Smithfield
Dawn Service
Saturday 25 April 2026
6.00am
Cross of Remembrance Memorial
Smithfield Memorial Gardens, Anderson Walk, Smithfield
