Draw to Remember inspires 19,000+ Queensland students to honour service and sacrifice

Now in its fifth year, the creative learning initiative encourages children to connect with local veterans and harness their inner artist to reflect on why this day is so important. 

This year, veterans from 63 participating RSL Sub Branches across Queensland will visit schools in their local communities, sharing important learnings about Remembrance Day and personal experiences from when they served.  

Students around Queensland will 'put chalk to concrete', to create a series of murals honouring all those who have served and sacrificed in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.  

RSL Queensland State Vice President, Brigadier Arran Hassell CSC said RSL Queensland and its Sub Branches were proud to see students embrace the initiative with such enthusiasm and continue to carry the legacy forward.  

“Draw to Remember is all about engaging with the next generation so that they can understand why millions of people across Australia and the world observe Remembrance Day,” Brigadier Hassell said. 

“The program continues to inspire students to keep the spirit of remembrance alive and strengthen relationships within their local community. 

"It’s deeply rewarding to see schools return year after year to get involved and create their own unique artworks of remembrance while hearing from veterans within their communities.” 

RSL Queensland’s Draw to Remember initiative has grown significantly since it first began in 2022 with just 3,500 participating students in its inaugural year. In 2026, 19,770 students from 197 schools will take part – from Coolangatta to Cairns and everywhere in between.

For more information on Draw to Remember and Remembrance Day, including where to find a local service and resources to use in workplaces and schools, visit remembertoremember.com.au