Northern Beaches’ club Harbord Diggers will once again be hosting Australia’s, and possibly the Southern Hemisphere’s, largest two-up arena as part of its ANZAC Day commemorations on Tuesday 25 April 2023. Founded by a group of WWI diggers more than 80 years ago, Harbord Diggers is renowned for its ANZAC Day traditions, with its annual two-up tournament alluring thousands of punters to its iconic Freshwater headland each year. Once again, the Diggers outdoor Ocean Terrance and Lumsdaine Drive will be transformed into a giant two-up ring, with the two-up action kicking off from 12pm led by resident Ringmaster Matty ‘V’ Vandenbergh. Mounties Group Chief Operating Officer, Darren Marino said that ANZAC Day at the club has been a long- standing tradition and people from far and wide travel to be a part of the historic day.
“The two-up ring at Harbord Diggers draws an enormous crowd each year that is second to none. It is a truly special experience and we invite all our members and their guests to join us this year,” Mr Marino commented.
Mr Marino said that The annual Harbord Diggers ritual delivers an unrivalled atmosphere as thousands gather around Australia’s most picturesque two-up ring on the stunning Freshwater headland.
“With the backdrop of the ocean and our strong Digger heritage, Harbord Diggers has always been a special and extremely popular place for people from all over Sydney to visit on ANZAC Day and commemorate the ANZAC legacy,” explained Mr Marino. “ANZAC Day is one of, if not the most, important day on Australia’s calendar. It is also one especially important to Harbord Diggers, which was founded by a group of returned WW1 servicemen on Freshwater Beach,”
Mr Marino said that Harbord Diggers is confident that its record of the biggest two-up ring will be maintained – and has taken unprecedented steps to cater for a record turn-out whilst also supporting local veterans. Temporary pop-up options will surround the Ocean Terrace, enabling more space for people to enjoy the once-a-year event. Mr Marino went on to explain that those wanting to attend the 2UP at Harbord Diggers will need to secure a free club membership and a $10 ticket for the event. Tickets include exclusive access to the 2UP area with designated bars, food, and seating, with proceeds going to Wounded Heroes Australia who provide crisis support to veterans and their families. Entry also allows for Priority Entry into Harbord Diggers from the main entry (Evans Street) and access to all areas of Harbord Diggers operations.
Mr Marino said that aside from two-up, Harbord Diggers will also offer a range of other ANZAC Day activities, including a morning service and parade which will commence at 8am. Harbord Diggers will only be permitting over 18s from 11am on ANZAC Day. For More Information
