The Estonian community came together at the Australian War Memorial on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, for a wreath-laying ceremony to observe Estonian Victory Day.
Victory Day, June 23rd is a very important day in Estonian history. In Estonia it is commemorated with military parades. In Canberra, on a sunny but cold afternoon, the Estonian Ambassador Jaan Reinhold laid a wreath at the Australian War Memorial in memory of the soldiers who died fighting for their homeland.
Members of the local Estonian community and visitors from interstate including five members of the Estonian Cultural Foundation Australia (ECFA) board attended the moving ceremony. The Last Post ceremony started with the National Anthem, followed by the laying of the wreaths which was accompanied by a lament played on the bagpipes and concluded with the recitation of the Ode and playing of the Last Post.
Following the service, the Ambassador and his wife hosted a warm reception at their residence. Expressing his gratitude to those who attended, the Ambassador shared his hope that this commemoration will become a meaningful annual tradition for the community in the years to come.
The Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra on 24 June 2026. Photos: Kristi Barrow
Watch a replay of the ceremony on the Australian War Memorial’s YouTube channel:
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Canberra: Wreath-laying ceremony to mark Estonian Victory Day | HEIA
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