ANZAC Day Remembrance 2026: Honouring Service Through Reflection and Song
- 25 April 2026
Australian Consulate-General, Bali
On the evening of 25 April 2026, members of Bali Community Choir joined the Australian and New Zealand communities in Bali for the ANZAC Day Remembrance Ceremony at the Australian Consulate-General in Bali.
Gathering alongside diplomats, military representatives, veterans, families, and community members, approximately 200 attendees came together to honour the service and sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand personnel whose courage and commitment continue to shape generations. The ceremony provided an opportunity not only to remember the past, but also to reflect on the enduring values of community, service, and peace.
A Ceremony of Remembrance
The program began with welcome remarks from Australian Consul-General Ms Jo Stevens, followed by readings and addresses that explored the significance of ANZAC Day and the importance of preserving its legacy.
A particularly moving part of the evening was the wreath-laying ceremony. Representatives of the Australian Government, New Zealand Government, Australian and New Zealand Defence Force, British Government, and Indonesian Defence Force each paid their respects, creating a powerful visual expression of shared remembrance and international friendship.
The sound of Flowers of the Forest, performed by Regimental Pipe Major (Retired) Dominic Murphy, brought a solemn stillness to the gathering. This was followed by The Ode, the sounding of the Last Post, a minute of silence, and the Reveille as flags were raised—moments that invited quiet reflection from all in attendance.
The Choir’s Contribution
Music has long been an important part of commemorative events, offering space for reflection when words alone cannot fully express emotion.
Bali Community Choir was honoured to contribute to the ceremony through a repertoire selected to complement the occasion. The program included:
- Amazing Grace
- Breathe on Me, Breath of God
- When the Stars Begin to Fall
- Halle Halle Halle
- I Dreamed a Dream
- Do Not Be Afraid
- Aryati
The choir also led the singing of the Australian and New Zealand National Anthems during the official ceremony.
Performing in this setting carried particular significance. Surrounded by representatives from several nations and members of the wider Bali community, the choir’s role extended beyond musical performance. Through shared voices, the ensemble helped create an atmosphere of remembrance, respect, and connection.
Bringing Communities Together
ANZAC Day commemorations are rooted in history, but they are also about people—those who gather each year to remember, learn, and support one another.
Throughout the morning, attendees engaged warmly with choir members and fellow guests. Conversations continued after the formal ceremony, and many audience members took the opportunity to meet performers and capture photographs together. These simple interactions reflected one of the strengths of community events: their ability to bring people from different backgrounds together through shared experiences.
The presence of Australian, New Zealand, Indonesian, and international guests highlighted the unique cultural connections that exist within Bali’s diverse community. The ceremony served as a reminder that remembrance is strengthened when it is shared.
Gratitude and Partnership
Bali Community Choir extends its sincere thanks to Ms Jo Stevens, Australian Consul-General, for the invitation to participate in this meaningful event.
We are also grateful to the volunteers, venue partners, audience members, and every choir member whose time, preparation, and dedication made this dawn service possible. Their contributions helped create a respectful and memorable commemoration for all who attended.
As Bali Community Choir continues its partnership with the Australian Consulate-General and the wider community, we look forward to supporting future events that celebrate connection, understanding, and the power of music to bring people together.
