HONOURING those who have served the nation is a responsibility shared by all Australians—and this Anzac Day, a new community collaboration is opening the door for more people to take part in that tradition in a meaningful, hands-on way.
A partnership between the Greater Springfield RSL Sub-Branch and Creative Hearts Co. is encouraging locals to actively engage in commemorations by creating and laying their own wreaths.
Traditionally placed at the base of war memorials during Anzac Day and Remembrance Day services, wreaths are circular floral arrangements symbolising honour, respect and eternal remembrance.
While often associated with dignitaries or veterans, Sub-Branch President Glenn West said the opportunity is open to anyone willing to participate respectfully.
“Anyone who is willing to respect the occasion and make the effort can lay a wreath,” West said.
The collaboration began with a chance meeting at a pop-up gallery, where ideas quickly took shape.
“We just invited him in for a conversation and started brainstorming,” Marie, Hue and Sean, the Creative Hearts Co. team said.
“What came out of that was a shared vision—how we can work together, connect the community, and create something meaningful.”
That vision has since evolved into a series of creative workshops where participants can craft poppies and wreaths, giving families, children and community members a tactile and personal way to engage with the significance of Anzac Day.
As part of the initiative, Creative Hearts Co. is inviting the community to help create 200 handmade poppies in honour and remembrance.
The poppy-making sessions will run Tuesday to Friday in the lead-up to Anzac Day, from 3:15pm to 4:15pm at the Creative Hearts Co. Art Gallery, located at 7006 Melaleuca Drive, Brookwater.
Organisers are encouraging locals of all ages to take part in the experience, which blends creativity with commemoration. More information and session details are available via the Creative Hearts Co. website.
Organisers say the initiative is also about education and storytelling, particularly for younger generations who may feel disconnected from the meaning behind the day.
“With kids and teenagers, if they don’t feel involved, they can switch off,” Marie said. “But creativity and storytelling can bridge that gap. It allows us to honour the past in a way that’s engaging and meaningful.”
For the Creative Hearts team, the project also carries personal significance, shaped by their connections to education and military service.
“When we create something with purpose, especially around events like Anzac Day, it becomes something really special for families,” they said.
At its core, Creative Hearts Co. is driven by collaboration—not only within the arts sector, but across the broader community.
“One of our main focuses is working collaboratively with local businesses and groups to build engagement, trust and exposure,” the team said.
“It’s about reaching more people and supporting our artists, workshops and creatives—but also making sure what we do has genuine community value.”
The act of laying a wreath remains a simple yet deeply respectful tradition. When called forward, participants walk at a calm, measured pace to the memorial, gently place their wreath, step back, and pause for reflection.
“It’s one of the most significant ways, outside of simply attending, that people can pay their respects,” Mr West said.
The Sub-Branch is urging more locals to get involved this year, embracing the chance to honour those who have served in a personal and meaningful way.
“Life is short,” Mr West said. “If you feel moved to honour the occasion in this way, reach out and get involved.”
