Calendar of Events

FIRST LECTURE STARTING 10:30AM: General Gordon Bennett’s Controversial Escape from Singapore, February 1942 In February 1942, Lieutenant General Gordon Bennett controversially handed over command of 8th Division AIF and fled Singapore as it surrendered to the Japanese. He claimed that he escaped to advise Australia on how to fight the Japanese, but was condemned by […]

Australia had its own Thermopylae. We’ve just forgotten it. 15 April 2026 - April 2027 In 480 BC, one of history’s most famous battles was fought in central Greece at the narrow coastal pass of Thermopylae. For three days, a few thousand Greeks—led by 300 Spartan warriors and their king, Leonidas I—held back a vast […]

Inverleigh RSL Open Day supported by Geelong Re-Enactment Group

The Melbourne book launch for Long Journey Home: The perilous escapes of Anzac POWs from fascists in wartime Italy by Katrina Kittel is taking place on Sunday, 19 July 2026 at Tobruk House (44 Victoria Ave, Albert Park). The author will be interviewed by her son. Venue Perks: Attendees can also view an exhibition commemorating […]

“The Father of the Navy” - Guest Speaker: Captain Andrew Mackinnon CSC, RAN Rtd. President Naval Historical Society of Australia (Victoria Chapter) Master of Ceremonies Captain Rob Glanvill RAN, Rtd. Monday 20th July 2026 2 course lunch with drinks at the bar Box Hill RSL Upton Room 12pm To book your place $35 per person […]

Standing at the corner of William Street and A'Beckett Street, opposite Flagstaff Gardens, the former Army Medical Corps Drill Hall is now home to the Royal Historical Society of Victoria (RHSV).   Architect/Designer: George H Hallendal, Commonwealth Department of Works 1938 The building's layout reflects the Medical Corps' operational needs and military hierarchies: the other […]

Three George Cross Heroines of the WW2 Special Operations Executive & The Australian Cruiser Tank – Sentinel FIRST LECTURE by Virginia Handel starting 10:30AM: Three George Cross Heroines of the WW2 Special Operations Executive The secret organisation the Special Operations Executive (SOE) was formed by the British Government in 1940 to “coordinate, inspire, control and […]

As the saying goes, “An army marches on its stomach.” Yet the essential contributions of those who cook, research, and serve food to hundreds of hungry troops often go unrecognised. Taste of Combat honours the vital work of the Catering Corps and unveils the fascinating science and innovation behind military meals. Step into the world […]

The Royal Australian Artillery Historical Company presents: Save the date.   More information to come. Firepower:Lessons from WWII Seminar Series

On behalf of James Rosenberg, Chairman of the Spirit of Australia Foundation, we are delighted to welcome you to the 2026 Monash Commemorative Service, held at the Legislative Assembly Chamber, Parliament House. 2026 Monash Commemorative Service Please note it is important to arrive early (well before the starting time of 9:45am) to ensure you have time […]

Pacific Airshow® Gold Coast is a three-day weekend event featuring heart-pumping aerobatic demonstrations by the world’s finest aviators, VIP meet and greet events, social parties, family fun, licensed ticket precinct and more! Featuring some of the best civilian performers and military aviators from around the globe, Pacific Airshow® Gold Coast is the largest Airshow event […]

Join acclaimed Australian musician Fred Smith, for a reflective evening of music and storytelling, honouring service and sacrifice. Drawing on his experiences in Bougainville and Afghanistan, Fred brings to life the human stories of conflict, connection and memory through the power of live performance. When: Saturday 15 August 2026 Where: Theatre, Australian War Memorial Time:  Foyer doors open at 6 pm […]