What’s On & Open this Anzac Day

Ask TFG

24 Apr

Published 24 April

However you observe this significant day, there are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes that are staying open. Here are some of the events and places on and open this Apr 25:

aNZAC DAY SERVICES

5.15am: Parade commences from Toowoomba Bus Station Neil Street, ending at Mothers' Memorial.

5.30am: Dawn Service commences and will conclude at approximately 6.30am at Mothers' Memorial.

9.00am - 9.50am: Wreath Laying Ceremony at Mother's Memorial, Toowoomba

10.00am - 10.20am: Main parade commences from the Margaret / Neil Streets intersection, ending at Mother's Memorial

10.20am: Main service commences and will conclude at approximately 11.30am at Mother's Memorial

For regional service details, click here.

INSTALLATION: Memories in BLOOM:

A poignant tribute to wartime valor and sacrifice, the Toowoomba Mothers' Memorial stands adorned this Anzac Day with over 20,000 meticulously crafted Poppies and Violets, a heartfelt creation by artists Chris Just and Jayne Hodge. This inspiring display, a testament to the enduring legacy of those who served, honors not only their bravery but also the unwavering support of mothers, brides, sweethearts, and sisters. Each handcrafted flower, contributed by volunteers nationwide, weaves a narrative of sacrifice, love, and resilience against the backdrop of the Mothers' Memorial, forming a living tapestry of remembrance.

PLAYING TWO-UP

Legal in Queensland only on Anzac Day (it is technically a form of ‘street’ gambling) the game of Two-Up is traditionally played as a way of commemorating the Aussie soldiers, who themselves played this rough and informal wager game during their downtime in war. For those looking for where to play, The Rock will be hosting Two-Up & Rissole Sangas (as well as a special Anzac Day menu) in the TopBar from 1pm, and Fitzys will feature Two-Up and an all-day food menu, 12pm - late.

HOW TO PLAY: Two-up is a wagering game where players bet on the outcome of coin tosses. It involves tossing two coins simultaneously and betting on whether they will land with both heads up, both tails up, or with one coin showing heads and the other tails. Players place bets against each other or against a "spinner" who tosses the coins.

LIVE MUSIC

For those looking for something more relaxed, Fitzy’s are putting on live music from 12pm, The Rock has tunes from 2pm, Bone Idol kick off their regular Friday night gigs from 5.30pm, or swing by The Irish from 7pm.

ANZAC DAY TROOP TRAIN - FEAT THE GOWRIE GIRLS

DownsSteam’s annual Anzac Day steam train makes its return, departing Drayton Station at 1pm for a round trip to Wyreema. On board, Toowoomba’s own Gowrie Gals will set the tone with 1940s harmonies and wartime favourites, echoing the music that once travelled with the troops. The short journey includes access to the DownsSteam museum, a sausage sizzle at the station, and a moment to reflect — all from the charm of a heritage carriage.

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