About
About | The Route | Reflection | Participate | Sponsors | Contact | Walk Updates 25
A 275km journey honouring service and sacrifice, from Wagga to Canberra, the home of the Soldier and Aviator.
Reflection
Across the world pilgrimage is undertaken from people of all cultures, all religions (and none) and for a variety of purposes.
From even before the time of St Francis of Assisi, right up until the present, military veterans have been among the many pilgrims walking their way to transformation and healing.
Many Australians make journeys to places with significance to the national story such as Gallipoli and Kokoda, and others join pilgrimages on the Camino de Santiago, the hajj, the Shikoku Henro and the Kumbh Melah.
When complete Australian veterans and their supporters will be able to undertake pilgrimage in Australia.
Defence Anglicans is developing the physical and spiritual infrastructure to enable pilgrims to walk the ANZAC Way end-to-end, or in stages.
Participate 10-24 April 2025
An inaugural pilot walk is to be held 10-24 April 2025, with supporters from Defence, Churches, Veterans groups and the community, are warmly invited to join us. The final stage from Cotter Dam to Canberra is open to the public.
Accommodation enroute will be a mix of rooms in towns and camping along the way. A support team will transport our packs and food. Costs will be minimal thanks to our generous sponsors.
Each day will have a spiritual reflection for those interested and we will begin and conclude the pilgrimage with short services at the military chapels including Changi Chapel at Duntroon which was built by allied prisoners who were held by the Japanese Changi Prisoner of War Camp in Singapore in WWII.
Following this we will attend the last post service at the War Memorial.
To participate in this walk or future walks sign up below.
Sponsors
Defence Anglicans serve the Lord, the Nation and the Australian Defence Force family whenever and wherever we are called.
Service Personnel Help Society Inc (SPAHS). St George's provides affordable holiday accommodation for current and former service personnel, their spouse and their dependent school age children from Australia and its allies.
Walk Updates
For the longer form details of the journey, join us below with our day to day coverage which sometimes has a little more information.
Select the link below to go to the daily update:
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Day 14 – A Walk to Remember (Finale)
Date: 24 April 2025
Route: St John’s Reid → Changi Chapel (Duntroon) → Australian War Memorial
The final stage of The ANZAC Way was more than symbolic—it was sacred.
We began at St John’s Reid, retracing our purpose with each step to Changi Chapel at Duntroon. There, we were welcomed by Defence leaders and friends cheering us home.
Chaplain Cameron West opened the closing service, and Bishop Grant Dibden delivered the final reflection. Jeanette, Mike, and Lachlan led readings and prayers. After photos and embraces, the journey turned to its final leg: to the Australian War Memorial.
There we were joined by a number of Defence Leaders, Veterans, former Defence Leaders and supporters to join us in the last service, the walk to the Australian War Memorial Last Post.
There, front row, we joined the Last Post Ceremony—Cam and Bishop Grant laying wreaths to honour the fallen, the remembered, and the reason we walked.
We walked to remember, we walked for reflection, we walked for relationships.
The amazing thing about the ANZAC Way journey is its sense of purpose. It reminds us of the past, the contribution Australians have made, the reflection and gratitude of those who made sacrifices, the opportunity to share, learn through the relationship with others on the journey.
As we move forward with the ANZAC Way, we've come away with ideas of opportunities and improvements and the way to hold another ANZAC way pilgrimage walk.
If you are interested in finding out more please leave a message on our contact form below.
Day 13 – Homeward Bound
Date: 23 April 2025
Route: Camp Cottermouth → St John’s Anglican Church, Reid (23.5 km | 300m ascent & descent | 4.5 hrs)
Our penultimate day began with a tight 6km walk along Cotter Rd—narrow verges and close traffic making the first hour a little tense. But relief came as we entered Stromlo Park, rain lightly falling, weaving between mountain bikers and into Coombs.
At Café 80/20, we gathered with family and friends—including Cam’s parents and Chris Mundy. After a warm lunch and heartfelt conversation, our group—now nine strong—followed the Bicentennial National Trail past Scrivener Dam and into the heart of Canberra, finishing at St John’s Church.
That night, we slept in our own beds. What a feeling.
Day 12 – Valleys, Tracks, and Fireside Reflections
Date: 22 April 2025
Route: Brindabella Rd & Curries Rd → Camp Cottermouth (20.5 km | 350m ascent | 540m descent | 4.5 hrs)
Day 12 brought us back into familiar terrain—but with heart of fresh gratitude. The first stretch followed the Cotter Rd, before we turned onto tracks that meandered through ACT parks and down to the single-lane Cotter bridge, which we walked across in awe.
The climb into Camp Cottermouth Scout Camp was rewarded by camp cook supremo: Jeanette’s home-cooked dinner, marshmallows by the fire, and stories shared under the stars. Some of us slept on concrete. Cam and Mike pitched tents. It was the kind of night only a shared journey can bring.
After some Strava vs. Garmin debate—we’ve reconciled the total walking distance to 245 km... for now.
On this Good Friday, the weight of history walked with us. As we climbed, we reflected on the scene set 2,000 years ago—when Christ gave His life in ultimate sacrifice. That image stood beside our thoughts of those Australians and New Zealanders who also gave all in service, across many wars and conflicts.
This pilgrimage, today especially, is one of remembrance. Of quiet thanks. Of moving forward while carrying the stories of those who no longer can.
Days 9 to 11: Brindabella Valley, Baptism, and the Final Push
Day 11 – Back on Track
Date: 21 April 2025
Route: Brindabella Station → Corree Campsite
Distance: ~20+ km | Mostly downhill with significant uphill sections
Back on the trail with full packs, the walkers set out from Brindabella Station toward Corree Campsite. Though the route is said to descend into Canberra, the hills are far from over. Patchy rain cooled the trail and softened the earth, a welcome shift for the walkers.
As GPS and calculations add up, we now believe the full journey from Wagga to Canberra may stretch closer to 300 km, not 250 as originally planned—a testament to both the terrain and the determination of those walking it.
Day 10 – Easter Sunday (Rest Day)
Date: 20 April 2025
Location: Brindabella Valley (Rest Day at Echidna Lodge)
Christ is risen – He is risen indeed!
Though the walking paused, the pilgrimage continued in spirit. Lachlan, determined to complete every kilometre, walked the 10km he missed the day before, joined by Jill & Mike. The rest of us soaked in the peace of Brindabella Valley, embraced the first light rain of the trip, and took time to reflect on Easter and its message of resurrection, grace, and hope.
Day 9 – A Hidden Blessing
Date: 19 April 2025
Route: Barrois Campsite → Echidna Lodge (Brindabella Homestead)
Distance: 22 km | 4.5 hrs | 200m ascent | 500m+ descent
After days immersed in the bush, today’s descent into the Brindabella Valley brought new light, new rest—and an unexpected celebration. The team trekked 22km over hilly terrain, descending into the valley to reach the beautiful Echidna Lodge, hosted generously by Andy & Katie.
At midday, Lachlan left the trail briefly to attend his baptism and confirmation—but what he didn’t know was that the whole team quietly followed. In a touching surprise, we gathered to support him, sharing in a moment of deep spiritual joy.
Good Friday on the Trail – Day 8 of The ANZAC Way
Walk of Sacrifice
Title: Good Friday on the Trail – Day 8 of The ANZAC Way
Date: 18 April 2025
Route: Thomas Boyd Track Head → Barrois Campsite (22 km | 700m ascent | 200m descent)
After sharing stories and reflections around camp last night, we woke early to begin one of the most spiritually significant walks of our journey.
Two of our team quietly left before sunrise to assist with a vehicle shuffle to the next campsite. The rest of us prepared for what lay ahead—today’s route joining us with the Hume and Hovell Track, weaving deeper into the wilderness and our purpose.
On this Good Friday, the weight of history walked with us. As we climbed, we reflected on the scene set 2,000 years ago—when Christ gave His life in ultimate sacrifice. That image stood beside our thoughts of those Australians and New Zealanders who also gave all in service, across many wars and conflicts.
This pilgrimage, today especially, is one of remembrance. Of quiet thanks. Of moving forward while carrying the stories of those who no longer can.
Off the Beaten Track – Day 7 on The ANZAC Way
Into the Wilderness
Title: Off the Beaten Track – Day 7 on The ANZAC Way
Date: 17 April 2025
Route: Tumut → Lacmalac → Thomas Boyd Track Head (Hume & Hovell Trail)
Day 7 brought us deeper into the wilderness—and deeper into the purpose of this walk.
Departing Tumut, we made our way toward Lacmalac, a quiet riverside stretch that offered both a moment to catch our breath and a beautiful setting to share lunch. As the road turned to track, the connection to nature intensified. Dirt underfoot, tall trees overhead, and the sense of stepping into something ancient and enduring.
From Lacmalac, we walked into Thomas Boyd Track Head—our first night camping. This area marks part of the Hume and Hovell Track, a route filled with pioneering spirit and resilience. Tonight, we’ll pitch tents under the stars, listen to the bush settle around us, and gather for reflection.
It’s also the eve of Good Friday. As we prepare to climb further into the Brindabella Ranges, we carry with us the story of sacrifice—our faith, our history, and the service of those who walked before us.
Tomorrow may bring tougher terrain, but tonight we rest in gratitude.
The Road to Tumut and a Hero Remembered – Day 6 of The ANZAC Way Pilgrimage
The Road to Tumut & a Hero Remembered
Title: Into the Hills, Into Remembrance – Day 6 on The ANZAC Way
Date: 16 April 2025
Route: Adelong → Tumut (23 km | 5.5 hrs | 500m ascent)
Today’s journey carried both physical challenge and deep emotional reflection. Departing from Adelong, we travelled nearly 23 kilometres, largely off the main road, navigating winding dirt tracks and climbing steadily into State Forest terrain on the edge of Tumut. With a 500m ascent, the climb was tough—but timely. Tomorrow, we begin our trek into the Brindabella Ranges, and this was the perfect training ground.
In the afternoon, we gathered at the Tumut Cenotaph, where Chaplain Cam West led a heartfelt service. It was a sacred pause—a moment to remember those who served, and to reflect on why we walk this path: not just in memory, but in gratitude and hope.
From there, we were welcomed by the Tumut RSL Sub-Branch, a place filled with community, story, and Aussie warmth.
Among the highlights was the display on Edward John Francis ‘Jack’ Ryan VC, a Tumut-born soldier awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery during World War I. In September 1918, near Montbrehain, France, Jack single-handedly rushed multiple enemy machine gun posts under heavy fire, captured their crews, and turned the tide of battle. His courage still echoes through this town—and today, through us.
A special thank you to RADM Rachel Durbin, member and patron of the Tumut RSL, for her support, and to our hosts at the Oriental Hotel for restful beds and warm showers. We closed the night with dinner and good company, preparing for what lies ahead.
Tomorrow we walk toward Lacmalac, then on to Thomas Boyd Track Head, our first night camping under the stars. Reception may be limited, but our purpose is clear.
A Highway to Hospitality – Day 5 on The ANZAC Way Pilgrimage
A Highway to Hospitality
Title: Showers, Sunshine & Spirit – Day 5 on The ANZAC Way
Date: 15 April 2025
Route: Yaven Creek Trail/Snowy Mountains Highway → Adelong (21.6km | ~5 hrs)
Today’s journey took us along the verge of the Snowy Mountains Highway, with sweeping views and endless sky accompanying us for the first half of the 21.6km walk. After 11km of steady road walking, we turned onto quiet dirt roads that gently led us toward Adelong Falls, and finally, into the welcoming arms of Adelong township.
Upon arrival, we were hosted by the incredibly generous Phil and Gaye—whose hot showers were voted the best since we left home! Their warmth and hospitality set the tone for a night filled with good food, conversation, and deep gratitude.
In the evening, we gathered at St Paul’s Anglican Church, where Minister Grant Bell led a moving service that reminded us again why we walk. The dinner that followed was filled with laughter, stories, and incredible local cooking that filled more than just our stomachs.
We’re now stepping out again—next stop: Tumut. Spirits are high, legs are strong (enough), and the path ahead is full of promise.
Climbing Higher – Day 4 of The ANZAC Way Pilgrimage
Title: Climbing Higher – Day 4 on The ANZAC Way
Date: 14 April 2025
Location: Mount Adrah → Kestrel Nest EcoHut → Ellerslie Nature Reserve → Yaven Creek
Day 4 delivered both challenge and beauty. The terrain became steeper today, as walkers made their way from Mount Adrah, winding through the landscape and into the adjoining the Ellerslie Nature Reserve.
It’s been a harder day today with logistics and navigation. But a wonderful welcome from the local landowners who allowed us to go from their property into the adjoining Ellerslie Nature Reserve.
A special thank you to Highfield Farm and Woodland for their support and access. Their contribution helped us move from forest to farmland, and from effort to awe.
Tomorrow, we walk into Adelong—with full hearts and maybe slightly sorer feet.
Onward and Upward – Day 2 and 3 of The ANZAC Way Pilgrimage
Title: Day 2 and 3 of The ANZAC Way Pilgrimage
Date: 12-13 April 2025
Location: RAAF Base Wagga to Coreinbob to Tarcutta
After a restful night at RAAF Base Wagga, Day 2 we pilgrims hit the road again—this time under a clear sky, the kind that invites deep reflection and wide conversations. The journey to Ladysmith took us through rolling pastoral land and along roads that felt as timeless as the stories we carry. We passed old road signs, grazing cattle, and the occasional friendly wave from vehicles driving by, and locals who paused to learn more about the pilgrimage.
From Ladysmith it was onto Coreinbob, the exceptional autumn heat reminded us Australia’s varied climate, nothing that an extra drink of water couldn’t fix.
Tonight, we gather again to share stories, stretch tired legs, and prepare for tomorrow’s longer push to Tarcutta.
Day 3 brought a deeper rhythm to our steps as we moved from Coreinbob to Tarcutta—a place steeped in military history and community memory.
Along the way, the group has begun to form its own gentle ecosystem: walking, supporting, listening, and sometimes walking in silence together. The beauty of pilgrimage isn’t only found in the destination, but in the small, shared moments that happen along the way.
Reaching Tarcutta, with its proud links to Australia’s military past, was both sobering and uplifting. Tonight, we take time to reflect on those connections and how they live on in the stories of people associated to those who served in the district.
We were reminded that the Memorial Hall commemorates those from the district who have served in the various conflicts in which Australia has been involved.
On both sides of the entrance are white marble honour rolls, one for the First World War and the other for the Second World War and Vietnam. Remembering those who had served and given the greatest sacrifice.
A Humble Beginning – Day 1 of The ANZAC Way Pilgrimage
Title: A Humble Beginning – Day 1 of The ANZAC Way Pilgrimage
Date: 11 April 2025
Location: Kapooka to RAAF Base Wagga
With the sun casting a soft glow over the Soldiers Chapel at Kapooka, the inaugural ANZAC Way pilgrimage began with reverence, anticipation, and quiet excitement. We gathered in solemn reflection, honouring the legacy of service and sacrifice before setting out on their journey. The Chaplains at Kapooka helped in sending us off on our journey.
The walk took us along the riverside at Wagga. We paused for our first break at Victory Memorial Gardens—an oasis of memory and community spirit. It was an opportunity to remember those who had served and had given the ultimate sacrifice serving Australia. The atmosphere was thoughtful and warm, with spontaneous conversations and shared reflections among walkers and supporters alike.
In the afternoon, we pressed on to RAAF Base Wagga, where we were hosted overnight. As evening settled in, we came together for a review of the day’s experiences. Laughter, insights, aching feet, and future ideas were shared in a spirit of camaraderie and purpose.
Contact Us
Please contact the Office of the Bishop to the Australian Defence Force or the Project director, Chaplain Cameron West, for more information or to register your interest in the following form.
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About | The Route | Reflection | Participate | Sponsors | Contact | Walk Updates 25
