Preparing for Remembrance Day at the Shrine

Remembrance Day 2018 marks the centenary of the Armistice of the First World War – the end of four years of desperate fighting that saw the death and suffering of hundreds of thousands of Australians, far from the land and people they loved.

To commemorate this momentous time in our nation’s history, Victorians are invited to attend this special Remembrance Day Service at the Shrine of Remembrance from 10.15am on 11 November.

Together, as a people united through the service and sacrifice of those who fought to defend our nation, the Shrine will observe one minute of silence as Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau lays a wreath on behalf of all Victorians at 11am.

This poignant occasion will include a reading of the Ode by Warrant Officer Class One Kellie Brett, Regimental Sergeant Major, 4 Brigade. 

Shrine CEO, Dean Lee said that on this, the centenary of the Armistice, we will reflect on the significance of this epic moment in history – both for our nation and for each individual touched by the long and brutal war which preceded it.

“I invite all Victorians to come together to reflect and honour the value of peace so dearly bought, then and now,” Mr Lee said.

A series of special events are planned throughout the day: 

• a floral tribute – Binyon’s Ode spelt in metre-tall letters of hand crotched poppies
• at 6am, pipers around the world join at dawn to mark this sombre occasion
• choral performances and heartfelt vocal tributes follow the official service
• 11.30am presentation of the 2018 Shrine of Remembrance Medal
• 11.45am presentation to the finalists of the 2018 Remembrance Day Poster Competition for primary-school students
• 5pm Shrine Guard will lower the flags as the Last Post sounds
• as darkness falls the Shrine will be washed in red light for the first time in its 84-year history

In an historic first, the Shrine will be illuminated red to mark the centenary of the Armistice of the First World War. 

The 5000 Poppies Project returns to the Shrine with a contemplative walk of handmade poppies articulating The Ode from Laurence Binyon’s For the Fallen.

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