The 2026 ANZAC Day march in Sydney again provided a formal platform for communities to represent their wartime histories within the broader Australian narrative. Among them, Cypriots for ANZACs presented a clear and structured recognition of Cyprus’ contribution to the Allied war effort – positioning it within a public setting that remains unique outside Cyprus itself.
The group marched under the banner of the Cyprus Regiment, the unit established in 1940 under British command. The Regiment drew volunteers from across the island who served in transport, logistics, and operational support roles across multiple theatres during the Second World War.
In parallel, Cypriots also served in Greek forces during both World Wars, a dual contribution that remains underrepresented in mainstream commemorations.
Photographs from the march document a deliberate presentation: banners identifying the Cyprus Regiment, participants wearing inherited medals, and the visible inclusion of younger generations. The imagery reflects an effort not only to commemorate but to formally situate Cyprus within the ANZAC framework in Australia.
Harry Andrew described the initiative in practical terms.
“This is about recognition in a national setting,” he said. “Sydney is, effectively, the only place outside Cyprus where this level of organised, public acknowledgment of the Cyprus Regiment takes place within an ANZAC context.”
George Phillips highlighted the importance of establishing continuity and record.
“The objective is to ensure the Cyprus Regiment is documented and understood alongside other Allied units,” he said. “Events like this provide visibility that is otherwise limited.”
Harry Stavrianos pointed to the role of intergenerational participation.
“What you see in the photos is continuity,” he said. “Families maintaining a historical record through participation. That is how these contributions remain part of the public narrative.”
The Sydney march continues to function as a reference point for this recognition. Within the structured format of ANZAC Day, Cypriots for ANZACs have created a consistent presence that identifies Cyprus’ wartime service – particularly through the Cyprus Regiment – within Australia’s commemorative landscape.
In doing so, the initiative establishes a distinct and ongoing acknowledgment of Cyprus’ role in the Allied effort, positioned in a setting that, outside the island itself, has no direct equivalent.
If you would like to join the Cypriots for ANZAC or find out more about the role of Cyprus in World War One and Word War Two visit: www.cyprus.org.au
