THE ANZAC Day service at Midland Workshops is returning again this year with organisers inviting the community to be part of its revival.

The service will begin at 8.30am at the Peace Memorial at the former Midland Railway Workshops, hosted on behalf of the Midland Workshops community groups.

Event organiser Mark Richards said the service had been inactive prior to COVID but was brought back by City of Swan groups determined to see it continue.

“The service was inactive for quite some time, so we brought it back and each year it’s grown bigger and better,” he said.

Community groups involved include the Midland Districts Historical Society, Machinery Preservation Club of WA, Hand Tool Preservation Society of WA, the 1904 Blacksmiths group and the CWA Midland branch.

Mr Richards said the service had steadily rebuilt in recent years and encouraged people to attend and experience it.

This year’s event will include Guildford Grammar cadets, the Midland Scout Group and participation from Bellevue RSL, with an ex-serviceman delivering the Ode.

A commemorative address will be delivered by Steve Petrucciani, alongside a piper and chaplain.

Mr Richards said the service had evolved from modest beginnings into a more complete ceremony.

“I started off with a USB drive for the bugle and national anthem, and from there we’ve grown to have a bugler playing from the staircase, which adds a very nice touch,” he said.

Following the service, attendees will be offered refreshments including egg and bacon burgers provided by Ritz Cafe, as well as a coffee cart and morning tea hosted by the CWA.

Mr Richards said the event was not only about remembrance but also about reconnecting the community with the Peace Memorial site.

“You’ve got such a lovely Peace Memorial that had been inactive for quite a period of time, and this is about activating that area,” he said.

“We just want people to come along and be part of the service.”

Mr Richards said his involvement was also personal, shaped by a lifelong appreciation for servicemen and women.

“I’ve been around servicemen all my life, and there’s a huge appreciation for past and present servicemen and women,” he said.

“It’s my way of saying thank you.”

He also highlighted the legacy of Lieutenant Colonel Thomas John Todd, who served as second-in-command of the 10th Light Horse during the First World War and has ties to Bellevue.

“It’s a day of recognition and supporting ex-servicemen and women,” Mr Richards said.

The Midland Workshops service has no set capacity, with space available across the lawn and surrounding areas for those attending.