Time to come together and reflect
Published on 22 April 2026
Each year, as April 25 approaches, I’m reminded just how special our community here in Hobsons Bay is.
Anzac Day provides us an opportunity to pause and reflect on the sacrifices those from generations before us made, so we can enjoy the freedom we have today.
While I don’t have personal or family connections to the day itself, it does serve as a poignant occasion for me.
Anzac Day means many things to different people, but for me it’s about community, mateship and being there for one another – values embedded at the very heart of Hobsons Bay.
We see these values reflected in our everyday lives, in the way we support one another and look after those who need help.
I think it’s quite fitting that we’ve seen this spirit displayed to be able to host some of the several Anzac services that will take place across Hobsons Bay this year.
Our local RSLs do a terrific job each year hosting services, with Altona and Spotswood Kingsville branches once again playing a key role this year. But I’ve been particularly encouraged by the efforts of our community.
Seabrook will once again feature an entirely community-run service. And with doubt surrounding if they would take place, community members and groups have stepped up to ensure there would be services in Williamstown and Newport this year.
It’s this passion for community and stepping up when needed that ties in so well with what Anzac Day is about. Congratulations to everyone involved in playing your part to commemorate this important day on the Australian calendar.
As mentioned, there are plenty of opportunities for community members to pay their respects in person across Hobsons Bay, with dawn services at Altona, Seabrook, Spotswood and Williamstown, and day services at Newport and Spotswood.
And on 24 April, you can hear from author Hugh Jones at Williamstown Town Hall as he reflects on his book Two Good Soldiers, One Great War.