Historic Kangaroo March commemorated for the Centenary of Anzac

NSW Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Veterans Affairs David Elliott today joined the community in Bundanoon to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the Anzac Kangaroo Recruitment March.

In 1915, 88 young men began a war-effort recruitment walk from Wagga Wagga to Campbelltown, adding numbers as they marched the dusty roads through regional NSW.

“More than 200 men eventually marched their way to the Domain in Sydney and they could not have imagined that 100 years later we could retrace their footsteps with their dependents, honouring their dedication and sacrifice,” Mr Baird said.

“This march pays homage to the sacrifices made here in regional NSW and is a way for us to reflect on the past and bring the community together.

“Our involvement in the Great War has helped shape Australia’s history, our character and culture and that is why it is so important to commemorate milestones like this.”

Mr Elliott thanked the Bundanoon community for their tireless work in recognising the efforts of WWI service men and women.

“Regional NSW played an integral part in the war effort and the support of the Bundanoon community today is living proof that this hard work and sacrifice is not forgotten.”

Mr Baird and Mr Elliott met with descendants of the original Kangaroos, RSL members and school students, and took part in a ‘paper poppy’ tribute to commemorate the Centenary of Anzac.

Mr Baird and Mr Elliott also met with local community leaders to discuss Bundanoon’s celebration of its 150-year history in 2015.

The Kangaroo March is one of a number of march re-enactments commemorating the Centenary of Anzac. For more information, visit veterans.nsw.gov.au/centenary.