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Western Front Communiqué - July 2026
The Sir John Monash Centre's Newsletter
Here is the latest news from the Sir John Monash Centre. For more updates and booking information, be sure to visit our website.
History
The 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme
1 July 2026 marked the 110th anniversary of the beginning of the Battle of the Somme. Each year, hundreds of people attend the commemorations that are held at key memorial sites in the Albert region.
Let’s look back on the highlights of this day of remembrance.
Tourism
The Chateau of Querrieu
Now a part of the Australian Remembrance Trail, the Chateau of Querrieu was used as the headquarters to the 4th British Army during the First World War. It was also visited by General John Monash to award commendations and medals to soldiers of the 4th Australian Division after the success of the battle of Le Hamel in July 1918.
The Chateau of Querrieu will exceptionally open its doors during in July and September of 2026, as part of the 110th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme.
Current and coming events at the Sir John Monash Centre
26 July and 16 August 2026 - Cooking Workshop
Learn how to make scones and Anzac biscuits, Australia’s iconic biscuits, which were created during the First World War.
When Britain entered the First World War in August 1914, Australia quickly launched an appeal for volunteers. They formed the Australian Imperial Force (AIF), which was incorporated into the newly formed Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) in Egypt. Little did they know they would leave a lasting mark on Australian and New Zealand military history on 25 April 1915 at Gallipoli – a day still remembered to this day as Anzac Day.
This exhibition will guide you through their journey, providing background and insights into what Australian soldiers experienced before reaching the Western Front. Visitors will not only learn about these events but also handle replica items carried by Australian soldiers in 1915 and 1916.
Temporary exhibition – Bringing their Spirits Home
The Sir John Monash Centre presents Bringing Their Spirits Home, a heartfelt outdoor exhibition by Joseph (Joe) Flick, a proud Gomilroi, Uallaroi and Bigambu man.
This deeply personal project traces Joe’s journey to honour the First Nations soldiers of the First World War who never returned home. Among them is his grandfather, Private Michael (Mick) Flick, who enlisted in 1916 and, after surviving the war, returned to Australia to face discrimination and inequality.
Set within the Sir John Monash Centre until September 2026, this exhibition invites visitors to reflect on remembrance, recognition and the enduring legacy of Aboriginal service.
