Gosnells expands Anzac Day commemorations

The City of Gosnells will expand its Anzac Day commemorations in 2026, delivering a three-day program of events designed to honour the significance of the day and strengthen community participation across generations.

Recognising the importance of Anzac Day, the City has introduced four special events at the Don Russell Performing Arts Centre (DRPAC) from Thursday 23 April to Saturday 25 April.

The program complements the Gosnells RSL’s Dawn Service, March and Gunfire Breakfast, which remain the foundation of local commemorations.

Mayor Terresa Lynes said the expanded program reflects the City’s commitment to preserving and promoting the Anzac legacy.

“Anzac Day is a defining element of our national story”, Mayor Lynes said.

“By expanding our commemorations, we are creating more opportunities for the community to reflect on the courage, sacrifice and service of Australian and New Zealand service personnel, while ensuring these stories continue to resonate with future generations.”

The DRPAC program includes:

• A stage production of 21 Hearts telling the story of Vivian Bullwinkel, the sole survivor of the Banka Island massacre during World War II. It will be performed by Theatre 180 at 7pm on Thursday 23 April.
• Personal stories of soldiers from the region, presented by distinguished military historian and local author Neville Browning, followed by a screening of the film Gallipoli at 10am on Friday 24 April.
• A special Art With a Glass acrylic guided painting workshop called Poppies at 7pm on Friday 24 April, with artist Geraldine Gustavino.
• Unforgotten: Songs of Australians at War, presented by Fred Smith at 7.30pm on Anzac Day, Saturday 25 April.

Mayor Lynes said broadening the program would encourage reflection, education and intergenerational understanding.

“Extending our Anzac events ensures the spirit of remembrance remains strong within our community,” Mayor Lynes said.

The City’s Anzac events are presented by the City of Gosnells and DRPAC and proudly sponsored by SDA Compass.

Tickets to all DRPAC Anzac events will be available on Monday 23 February 2026 from our website.

Veteran Card holders are eligible for a 50 per cent discount to Art With a Glass and Unforgotten. Contact the Box Office to register your card details.