Haka for Life: Indigenous ANZAC Day Service

This event is a celebration and commemorative event that supports the First Nation cultures, both Aboriginal and Maori service men and women.

First Nations soldiers and military personnel have a long history of service within the Australian and New Zealand military and contributing to the formation of a strong ANZAC heritage.

The Indigenous ANZAC day service both showcases and honours this heritage through a mixed-media and traditional performance service that also pays respect to existing ANZAC traditions. The event includes a demonstration of Australian First Nation performance, smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country. It also includes a component of traditional Nyoongar dance that welcomes the visiting New Zealand Maori service personnel. A traditional Maori Haka is performed as both an offering of and a sign of respect and honour to the traditional custodians, and to pay tribute to those who have served. The significance of a maori haka has a long history which is also deeply embedded in the New Zealand military history.

Following the opening and traditional performances, there will be formal speeches in offered in English, Nyoongar and Maori. Previously speeches have been offered by Minister for Indigenous Australians Hon Ken Wyatt; Senator Dorinda Cox; RSLWA State President; and key first nations and maori veterans. This is enhanced by a visual presentation of historical and archival photography and memorabilia that showcase the heritage of indigenous service personnel throughout the history or the ANZAC partnership. Following this is a commemorative flag raising ceremony and then closing. 

Event Details: Suitable for General Audiences, Free Admission - Bookings Not Required