Brisbane’s historic Toowong Cemetery is the final resting place for Canon David John Garland, the influential clergyman widely regarded as the primary architect behind the Anzac Day traditions Australians honour each year.
Architect of Anzac Day
Known as the “architect of Anzac Day,” Canon David Garland was crucial in establishing today’s commemoration. Working as a chaplain at Enoggera Army Barracks during World War One, Garland saw rising casualties from campaigns like Gallipoli. Sources state he proposed a national day to honour the sacrifice of fallen soldiers.
He rallied community support and was central to establishing the Anzac Day Commemoration Committee of Queensland. Garland served as its secretary from 1916 to the present. He is credited with creating the original framework for Anzac Day commemorative services.
Garland worked tirelessly to gain acceptance for the day from military, religious, political, business, and community groups. The first Anzac Day was marked on 25 April 1916 with ceremonies in Australia, a march in London, and events in army camps overseas.
Shaping the Commemoration
Beyond proposing the day, Canon Garland initiated many specific ceremonies and rituals that became central to Anzac Day. These included the Anzac Day march, the luncheon for returned soldiers, the solemn two minutes’ silence, wreath-laying ceremonies at memorials, and special church services. He also started a trust funded by the sale of Anzac Day badges – featuring the winged lion of St Mark because the saint’s day coincided with Anzac Day – to care for soldiers’ graves.
Garland actively promoted these ceremonies, which were adopted in other Australian states and significantly influenced commemorations in New Zealand and Great Britain. He used his extensive network of contacts with politicians, business leaders, military chiefs, and clergy across Australia and New Zealand to harmonise the approach to marking the day. He successfully persuaded the public, industry leaders, and clergy of all backgrounds to support this special day of remembrance.
His relentless campaigning was key to achieving government legislation establishing Anzac Day as a public day for solemn commemoration in Queensland by 1921, contributing to federal harmony by 1930. Sources indicate that he initially ensured the organising committee remained civilian-led.
A Life of Service
Born in Dublin, David John Garland originally trained for the law before moving to Australia and joining the Church of England ministry in 1889. His clerical career took him to New South Wales, Western Australia, and finally Queensland. In WA, he successfully organised parishes and campaigned for religious education in state schools, leading to changes in the Education Act.
In Queensland, from 1902, he served as a rector, canon, and archdeacon, and he led the successful campaign for the Bible in State Schools referendum in 1910. His service as a military chaplain began in the late 1890s in Western Australia with soldiers preparing for the Boer War. During World War One, he was a senior chaplain for troops in Queensland before serving overseas in the Middle East from 1917 to 1919. He established clubs for the Australian forces, developed special burial services, and raised funds for memorials and soldier support there.
Upon returning, he became rector of Ithaca Parish in Brisbane, broadcasting Sunday services from St Barnabas’ Church at Red Hill for many years until his death. He was also involved in immigration programs and led the New Settlers’ League.
Enduring Legacy in Toowong and Beyond
Photo Credit: Monument Australia
Canon Garland’s energetic work and organisational skills left a lasting mark on Australian society, particularly through the establishment and enduring nature of the Anzac Day commemorations. His central role was recognised during his lifetime; acting Queensland premier W. N. Gillies reportedly described him in 1924 as the “life and soul” of the Anzac Day committee. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1934.
Canon David John Garland passed away in 1939 and was buried in Toowong Cemetery, a place connected to his work, including his role in establishing the Cross of Sacrifice memorial. His contributions are remembered through memorials such as plaques and a road overpass dedicated to the “architect of Anzac Day.” His former church, St Barnabas’, is also noted for its connection to this significant figure in Australia’s history.
Published Date 07-April-2025
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