Anzac Day 2026: Mt Barker’s traditional commemorations expected to attract hundreds to the town’s war memorial

Mt Barker will host its traditional Anzac Day commemorations with hundreds of people expected to gather at the town’s war memorial at 6am ahead of the dawn service.

Last year’s ceremonies at the Centenary Park memorial attracted about 300 people as the town remembered those who have served — or are serving — in conflicts past and present.

Similar numbers are expected for the 2026 dawn service which will start at 6.15am and be followed by a gunfire breakfast at the Plantagenet District Hall on Memorial Road, where all are welcome between 6.45am and 8am.

Shire president Len Handasyde said the annual, poignant rituals of remembrance were an important day on the calendar.

“It’s definitely a time of reflection where we can think about who we are and what has gone before,” he said.

Following the breakfast, marchers will assemble at 9.45am between the Mt Barker Community Resource Centre and the bowls and sporting club before heading to the war memorial.

The Anzac Day service at the war memorial will start at 10.45am.