Anzac Day in Norfolk Island
Anzac Day is a public holiday on Norfolk Island every 25 April. Local commemorations centre on a dawn service at Emily Bay and a morning service at the Cenotaph in Kingston, giving the island’s observance a distinctive setting.[1][2]
A public holiday on 25 April
Norfolk Island lists Anzac Day as a public holiday on 25 April.[1][3]
Norfolk Island employees are covered by Australia’s Fair Work system, including the National Employment Standards and public holiday entitlements. Employees generally have the right to be absent on a public holiday, although employers may ask them to work in some circumstances.[4][5]
Meaning and origins
Anzac Day marks the 25 April 1915 landing of Australian and New Zealand soldiers at Gallipoli during the First World War. Today it is a time to recognise service and sacrifice across conflicts, wars and peace operations.[5]
On Norfolk Island, the commemorations take place at Emily Bay and Kingston’s Cenotaph. The island’s heritage precinct provides the setting for both services, connecting the national day of remembrance with a named local place.[2]
Dawn service and morning commemoration
The dawn service is held on the shore of Emily Bay lagoon. A morning service follows at the Cenotaph in Kingston; Norfolk Island Tourism says the local R.S.L. clubs invite ex-service personnel and their descendants to join the commemorations.[2]
Local R.S.L. clubs invite ex-service personnel and their descendants to join the commemorations.[2]
Planning your day
Public holiday status sets workplace entitlements. Check directly with businesses and service providers before making plans, especially if you need groceries, banking or a ride to a service.[4]
Check Norfolk Island’s current event notices before attending, as service details can vary.
Frequently asked questions
When is Anzac Day on Norfolk Island?
It is observed every year on 25 April.[1]
Is Anzac Day a public holiday on Norfolk Island?
Where are the Norfolk Island services held?
The dawn service is at Emily Bay lagoon, followed by the morning service at the Cenotaph in Kingston.[2]
Are shops and restaurants open?
Check the opening hours of individual venues before you go.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Anzac Day in Norfolk Island:
- Norfolk Island travel information- Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts
- Anzac Day Public Holiday- Norfolk Island Tourism
- Key events and dates- Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area
- Norfolk Island reform- Fair Work Ombudsman
- Public holidays- Fair Work Ombudsman