Close to 500 members of the community came together in the early hours of ANZAC Day to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s servicemen and women at the annual commemoration hosted by Bankstown RSL and the Bankstown RSL Sub-branch.
Held at the Bankstown Courthouse Reserve, the service commenced at approximately 7:30 am, drawing a strong and respectful crowd despite the early start. The ceremony reflected the enduring significance of ANZAC Day, with attendees pausing in solemn remembrance of those who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were:
- The Hon. Tony Burke, Minister for Home Affairs and Federal Member for Watson
- The Hon. Jihad Dib, NSW Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government, and Member for Bankstown
- Clr. Bilal El Hayek, Mayor of the City of Canterbury Bankstown
- Tony Stewart, Chairman of Bankstown RSL
- Clr. George Zakhia, Councillor for the City of Canterbury Bankstown
- Wally Mehanna, CEO of the Canterbury Bankstown Chamber of Commerce
A special highlight of this year’s service was the active participation of students from La Salle Catholic College Bankstown, who played an important role throughout the ceremony. The students served as co-MCs and were entrusted with reading key components of the service, adding a meaningful and intergenerational dimension to the commemoration. Their involvement not only honoured the legacy of the ANZACs but also demonstrated how remembrance continues to be carried forward by younger generations.
The ceremony was marked by a strong sense of unity, as veterans, families, local organisations, and residents stood together to reflect on the courage, resilience, and mateship that define the ANZAC spirit.
Oz Arab Media was also present, with Director Remy Wehbe and members of the team providing live coverage and interviews throughout the morning, ensuring the event reached a broader audience and continued to engage the community beyond the reserve.
Following the service, attendees were invited to continue the commemoration with a breakfast gathering at Star Buffet at Bankstown RSL. The post-service breakfast provided an opportunity for reflection, connection, and community spirit, allowing those present to share stories and honour the legacy of the ANZACs in a more informal setting.
The 2026 ANZAC Day service at Bankstown Courthouse Reserve once again demonstrated the deep respect held within the local community for those who have served, ensuring their legacy lives on for future generations.
Lest we forget.
Photos of the event available here.
