The often-unheralded work of war and service animals will be commemorated at a civic service at the Queensland War Animal Memorial in the Queensland State Rose Garden in Newton Park, Toowoomba from 9.30am on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Toowoomba Regional Council's Cr Carol Taylor said residents were welcome to lay wreaths and join the service that is part of commemorations for National Purple Poppy Day.
"The purple poppy symbolises all animals that have died during military conflict around the world," Cr Taylor said.
"Purple Poppy Day is a fitting tribute to the thousands of animals that faithfully worked in many different and dangerous roles throughout history.
"Bravery, determination and doggedness are qualities that are regularly attributed to the heroic deeds of Australian military and civilian personnel in war and peace-keeping operations across the generations.
"These qualities apply equally to the thousands of animals that worked faithfully beside their human counterparts in all conflicts.
"The tales of Simpson and his donkey and the charging horses of Beersheba are legendary. There are countless other tales involving horses, camels, dogs, cats, pigeons and marine animals that will be remembered on the day.
"Throughout history animals have served our armed forces as beasts of burden, messengers, protectors, mascots and faithful companions.
"Toowoomba is fortunate to have one of Australia's most striking memorials to our war animals, the Soaring Spirit statue that was created by artist Susan Bahary and unveiled in 2017. The statue rises above a horseshoe-shaped Queensland War Animal Rose Garden that features the official Australian War Animal Purple Rose, Charles de Gaulle."
Toowoomba resident and Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation secretary Peter Kotzur, who is a former RAAF serviceman, said the organisation estimated more than nine million animals died during World War I, including thousands of Australian war horses.
Mr Kotzur said a horse and rider from the 11th Light Horse Darling Downs Troop would be in attendance and attendees were welcome to bring their pets.
"Apart from remembering the actions and service of animals from past military campaigns, Purple Poppy Day also serves as a chance to recognise the efforts of animals that remain in active service, whether in all military services or in roles with the Police service and border force operations," Mr Kotzur said.
"The memorial service allows the community to honour the loyalty, courage and sacrifice of our war animals and the important role they played as companions alongside all service personnel.
"On National Purple Poppy Day we should all take a moment to honour the contributions animals have made to our nation."
