Anzac Day Special Event with Wollongong Council
The MX-5 Illawarra Chapter ANZAC Day Memorial Tribute
Special Event Thursday 23rd April 2026 hosted by Wollongong City Council
The ANZAC journey for the Illawarra Chapter commenced in Thirlmere in 2024 where we honoured a very brave young soldier, Ian Thompson, who when called upon fought with tenacity, effectively saving his platoon from being overrun in an enemy contact. On that occasion we were honoured in meeting the family, and had the opportunity to share precious time with them.
The Illawarra Chapter will, on this day continue a journey of remembrance for the local soldiers killed in action during the Vietnam War and the consequences, cost to their families and friends. There are four soldiers of the Wollongong area interned in the Memorial Gardens, Berkeley, Wollongong, and their stories are available to anyone interested in reading about them.
THE EVENT - GRAVE SIDE VIGIL OF FALLEN SOLDIERS AND AFFECT ON FAMILIES
10.00am Grave side vigil, Last Post Ceremonies Wollongong Memorial Gardens
176 Berkeley Rd, Unanderra NSW 2526
The Illawarra Chapter invites all MX-5 Club Members and their families and friends to attend a grave side vigil Last Post Ceremony for Vietnam soldiers killed in action during the Vietnam War.
Vietnam is the first Australian War where the government was pressured to repatriate those soldiers killed in Vietnam to their loved ones for burial in Australia. Four soldiers are interned in Wollongong. A soldier’s journey is a lonely one. They commit themselves to the task, do their duty with pride and when fallen are laid to rest and we commit ourselves to remember them. On this day we have the opportunity not only to remember them, but the unique opportunity to know their story.
In Remembrance there are no rules when doing so. On this unusual and significant occasion Tony will look at the cost and affect of war on those left behind. The event will take approximately two hours. Time will be taken for leisure and thoughtful remembrance.
Seating is suggested for members to bring along for comfort. It may be wet underfoot so suitable shoes are recommended. There are no limits to attendees. There is no cost, but it is imperative to book as we need to advise Council.
You can view Tony's video by Wollongong Council on Facebook.
