Harbord Diggers Hosted The Biggest Games Of Two-Up In The Southern Hemisphere This ANZAC Day

Harbord Diggers welcomed more than 3,000 patrons to its annual ANZAC Day two-up event on Saturday, 25 April 2026, with a further 800 attendees gathering for the morning commemorative service overlooking
the Freshwater headland.

Following the event, Harbord Diggers donated $5,000 to Harbord Sub Branch and
$5,000 to the Northern Beaches Veteran Wellbeing Centre through proceeds raised
from ticket sales, supporting returned servicemen and women and veteran wellbeing
initiatives.

Widely regarded as the largest two-up game in the Southern Hemisphere, the annual
event once again brought together locals and visitors alike to honour the service and
sacrifice of Australia’s servicemen and women in a vibrant yet respectful
atmosphere.

Proceedings commenced with a commemorative service at 8.00AM, including an
RAAF F-35 flyover, before the much-anticipated two-up games began from 12.00PM
on the Ocean Terrace.

Returning to lead the action was fan-favourite ringmaster Matty V Vandenbergh, who
hosted the iconic two-up games against the sweeping backdrop of the Freshwater
coastline.

Mounties Group President, Steve Fitzpatrick, said the strong turnout reflected the
importance of ANZAC Day to the local community.

“ANZAC Day at Harbord Diggers has always been about bringing people together.
It’s an opportunity for the community to pause, reflect and honour those who have
served, while also sharing in a long-standing tradition,” Mr Fitzpatrick said.
“We were proud to once again host two-up in such a unique setting. The Ocean
Terrace provided an incredible backdrop for a day that blended remembrance with
connection.

“Supporting our returned servicemen and women through ticket sales was also an
important part of the day, helping extend that connection to veterans and their
families beyond ANZAC Day itself.”

ANZAC Day remains deeply embedded in the history of Harbord Diggers.
Established in 1930 by returned World War I servicemen who had formed bonds on
the battlefields of France, the Club was created as a place for connection,
camaraderie and shared experience.

The family-friendly commemorative service was free to attend, while entry to the two-
up event required a valid Mounties Group membership and a $10 ticket. Current and
former Australian Defence Force members received complimentary access as a
gesture of thanks for their service.