What’s happening?
Townsville will honour 80 years since Victory in the Pacific with a full weekend of VP80 commemorations from Friday to Sunday. Veterans, families, and residents will come together for services, parades, concerts, and tributes across the city. The commemorations, hosted by Townsville City Council in partnership with the Queensland Government and supported by the Australian Government through Department of Veteran Affairs grant funding, will also welcome World War II veterans from across Australia and special guests from the US Fifth Air Force.
Why it matters
Victory in the Pacific on 15 August 1945 marked the formal end of World War II in the Pacific, following years of intense conflict. Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said hosting the 80th anniversary in Townsville was a privilege for the garrison city.
“There is no doubt that Victory in the Pacific was one of the most significant moments of the 20th century. As Australia’s largest garrison city, we’re proud to be able to host the 80th anniversary of this significant event right here in Townsville,” Cr Greaney said.
“It’s particularly special to be able to welcome World War II veterans to our city as part of these commemorations. Their sacrifice is one that is deeply respected and understood by the people of Townsville.”
Premier David Crisafulli said the Parade of Heroes will be a significant feature. “On August 15, 1945, Australians spilled onto the streets to celebrate the formal end of the Second World War,” he said.
“The war had exacted a terrible toll on our nation, and events such as the Parade of Heroes are important to remember the enormous sacrifices made by Queenslanders to achieve peace. Queensland remains at the forefront of Australia’s Defence story as the home state to the nation’s largest population of veterans.”
Local impact
Townsville will become the central hub for Queensland’s VP80 commemorations, attracting visitors from across the country and the United States. With events ranging from solemn commemorative services to a community open day and concerts, the city will showcase its military heritage while strengthening community connections.
By the numbers
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80 years – Marking the anniversary of Victory in the Pacific, declared on 15 August 1945, which ended World War II in the Pacific.
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3 days – The duration of VP80 commemorations in Townsville, running from Friday to Sunday with a full program of events.
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Multiple venues – Key locations hosting activities include Anzac Park for services, Jezzine Barracks for the Community Open Day, The Strand for parades and displays, St James Cathedral for the 31st Battalion Service, and Queensland Country Bank Stadium for the veterans’ tribute.
Zoom in
Friday
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9:45am – Tree planting for Captain Bill MacIntosh, Townsville’s most highly decorated WWII veteran, with the Acting Mayor and Capt. MacIntosh’s daughter Helen – Anzac Park Cenotaph.
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10am – Commemorative Service & Wreath Laying – Anzac Park Cenotaph.
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Midday – Re-enactment of the “War Is Over” speech – Flinders Street.
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3:30pm – Joint US and Australian Commemorative Service at the 5th USAF memorial at Kissing Point – Jezzine Barracks.
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7pm – VP80 Dinner Under the Stars (sold out).
Saturday
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11am – 4pm – Community Open Day featuring Defence and historic vehicle displays, museum tours, food trucks, and exhibitors – Jezzine Barracks.
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4pm – 5pm – Exercising Freedom of Entry to the City with the 5th USAF – The Strand from Strand Park to Landsborough Street.
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4pm – 5pm – Parade of Veterans in Vehicles with 3 RAR Pipes & Drums, marching contingents from the 3rd Brigade and RAAF Townsville – The Strand from Strand Park to Jezzine Barracks.
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5pm – Aircraft flypast of historic and current aircraft – The Strand.
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5:30pm – VP80 concert featuring 1 RAR, the 5th USAF Band, and The Pacific Belles – Strand Park.
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7:30pm – VP80 Sky Salute pyrotechnics display – The Strand.
Sunday
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9am – 31st Battalion Association Annual Commemorative Service – St James Cathedral.
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10am – 11am – Pilgrimage to the Townsville War Cemetery – Belgian Gardens.
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3:45pm – Pre-game veterans’ tribute at the Cowboys Home Game – Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
Zoom out
Commemorations for Victory in the Pacific are held in cities across Australia and abroad, but Townsville’s events hold special significance due to its wartime role as a major military base. Its connection to the US Fifth Air Force and large veteran population makes it a fitting location for this milestone anniversary.
What to look for next
Townsville’s commitment to honouring military history and veterans suggests that future anniversaries will continue to combine historical remembrance with public events, ensuring these stories remain part of the community’s living memory.
