ANZAC Eve and ANZAC Day at the MCG

The ANZAC Day Eve and ANZAC Day matches at the MCG honour all who have worn our country’s uniform in service.

These two games are revered for capturing the significance of the occasion, and honouring the Australian service men and women who have fought for our country.

During the pre-game ceremonies at both matches, two of the most powerful sounds in football can be identified - the sound of silence before the observance of the Last Post, followed by the incredible roar of the crowd.

This moment of silence – a time to think about those have served in Australia’s armed forces and those who continue to serve, and about those who have lost their lives - elicits a surge of emotion.

With every person in the stands of the MCG at a standstill, only the sounds of one’s internal reflection can be heard.

Melbourne hosts Richmond on ANZAC Day Eve with a pre-game ceremony paying tribute to current service men and women, veterans and family members of the Australian Defence Force.

Lights will be dimmed in honour of the ANZACs, with the pre-game ceremony to include a moment of silence and the lighting of the cauldron.

On ANZAC Day, Essendon and Collingwood meet for the traditional fixture, with up to 90,000 fans expected to attend.

Before the first bounce there will be an army band performance, a motorcade of veterans and observance ceremony.

The Melbourne Cricket Club takes the opportunity to recognise members who served for our country.

In World War II, 2415 Members (out of about 8300) were in uniform.

Of these, 141 lost their lives On Active Service; five others, all civilians, were also killed. At the start of World War I, the MCC had 5449 Members. This 1914-18 Roll of Honour contains 137 names.

ANZAC EVE MATCH DAY PROCEEDINGS

6.55pm: Lighting of the Cauldron
7.05pm: Observance Ceremony
7.10pm: Joint team banner run through
7.25pm: Match start

ANZAC DAY MATCH DAY PROCEEDINGS

1.45pm: Army Band performance
2.25pm: Motorcade of veterans
2.35pm: Headline Entertainment - Augie March
3.00pm: Roulettes flyover
3.07pm: Observance Ceremony
3.18pm: Coin toss