2026 Anzac Day Commemorative Address

Major Erin Archibald

28th Apr 2026

Delivering the commemorative address on Anzac Day, Major Erin Archibald spoke of her deep connection to Guyra, the town where she was born and raised, and reflected on the enduring significance of the day within the community. She acknowledged the strong tradition of locals turning out each year, prompting her to consider why the day remains important and why future generations should continue to honour it.
In exploring Guyra’s service history, Major Archibald turned to records from the Australian War Memorial, researching those who served in the First and Second World Wars, as well as in Korea and Vietnam. Through this, she uncovered more about her own family’s military past, highlighting how major events like war shape not only those who serve, but also generations that follow.
She noted that many from Guyra enlisted seeking purpose and adventure, but returned with complex experiences, including lasting physical and emotional impacts. She paid tribute not only to those who served, but also to the families—particularly women and children—who supported them at home, often carrying heavy burdens with limited support.
Major Archibald emphasised the importance of oral history, sharing how conversations with her parents revealed stories that official records could not capture. She recounted the service of her great-grandfather, Robert Athol Archibald, who trained horses in Egypt during World War I, and her grandfather, Ronald Heagney, who enlisted at just 17 during World War II and served in various roles, including overseas deployment in Morotai. She also recognised the wider network of families connected to Guyra’s wartime history.
She reminded the audience that many present are directly descended from those named on the Guyra Soldier Memorial, and that their legacy continues to shape the community. For Major Archibald, Guyra’s true strength lies in its people—past, present and future—rather than just its well-known local industries or landscape.
She described what makes ANZAC Day in Guyra uniquely special: the volunteers handing out rosemary, the schoolchildren marching, the dedication of RSL members, and the visible acts of remembrance from families and veterans. These traditions, she said, reflect the strong sense of community that defines the town.
Reflecting on her own life since joining the Army in 2010, Major Archibald spoke of the privilege of growing up in a close-knit community where support is constant and personal connections run deep. Despite living in many places since, she said Guyra will always be home.
She concluded by stressing that ANZAC Day remains relevant because of the community’s willingness to show up for commemorations and for one another. Whether at sporting events, celebrations or times of loss, participation strengthens community bonds.
Major Archibald thanked those in attendance for taking the time to be there, reinforcing that it is this shared commitment that keeps the spirit of ANZAC Day alive in Guyra.
Lest we forget.

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2026 Anzac Day Commemorative Address

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