Register now for VP80 Parade of Heroes
Date published: 30 July 2025
Families of World War II veterans are being encouraged to take part in a special Parade of Heroes to commemorate 80 years since Victory in the Pacific.
The milestone marks the end of World War II and commemorations will be hosted by Townsville City Council in partnership with the Queensland Government and supported by the Australian Government through Department of Veterans’ Affairs grant funding.
The Parade of Heroes will be hosted on Saturday 16 August 2025 along The Strand between Strand Park and Jezzine Barracks.
Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the Parade of Heroes was a special way to involve the loved ones of World War II veterans.
“There’s no denying that Victory in the Pacific Day was one of the most-celebrated events of the 20th century, and we’ll be capturing that spirit this August,” Cr Greaney said.
“The Parade of Heroes will be a touching tribute to the men and women who bravely served our country and a special way to recognise the strength and resilience of the families of servicemen and servicewomen.
“This special parade will welcome veterans and their descendants to march along The Strand to honour their service to our country. We are inviting descendants of veterans to march with a sign with their loved one’s name and photo, to wear their medals and to be led by our living veterans in historic military vehicles.”
To get involved, enter your details, your WWII veteran family member’s details, and a photo of them. This information will be included on a sign printed by Council and provided on the day.
“North Queensland is home to a number of living World War II veterans, and we’re proud to be welcoming a number of travelling veterans to be part of our VP80 commemorations this August,” Cr Greaney said.
“It will be incredibly special to be able to host so many living World War II veterans in Townsville and to hear their reflections and memories of the war and achieving victory.”
Premier David Crisafulli and Minister for Veterans said the Parade of Heroes commemorated one of the most important days in Australian history.
“Victory in the Pacific Day was a time of celebration across much of the world 80 years ago, and it is important to remember the enormous human sacrifice that occurred to achieve that peace,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Queenslanders gave so much to support the war effort and the effects of that are remembered by families throughout the decades.
“Our state remains integral to our national Defence story, with servicemen and women based here during the Second World War and the State now home to the largest population of veterans in Australia.”
Registrations for the VP80 Parade of Heroes close Friday 8 August 2025.
For more information or to register for the Parade of Heroes, visit VP80 Parade of Heroes.
