How Cronulla’s ‘Books in Lieu of Wreaths’ Program is Supporting Local Schools and Honouring ANZAC Day Traditions
Ben Haime of Cronulla Sub-Branch collects the vouchers to go to schools, from Alyssa at The Best Little Bookshop in Town, Cronulla.
As ANZAC Day approached in 2025, the Cronulla RSL Sub-Branch once again brought the community together with a unique initiative that bridges remembrance with education — the cherished Books in Lieu of Wreaths program.
Rather than laying a wreath during the ANZAC Day service, members of the public, community groups, and local businesses were invited to donate towards book vouchers for schools. This heartfelt program has been running for more than 25 years, offering a meaningful way to commemorate the sacrifices of service personnel while giving back to the next generation.
And in 2025, the community response was truly inspiring.
A Record-Breaking Year of Giving
Thanks to widespread support, the Sub-Branch received 45 book vouchers and 6 hardcopy books, surpassing the previous year's total. Each voucher, valued at $35, allows participating schools in the Cronulla RSL Schools Program to select a book of their choice from our local partner, The Best Little Bookshop In Town. Each donated book proudly features an inside label honouring the name of the donor — a lasting tribute that links past remembrance to future learning. The Books in Lieu program also provides invaluable support to local business.
Spotlight on Generosity
We are especially grateful to community groups who went above and beyond this year.
Caringbah Rotary
Cronulla Indoor Bowls Club
Cronulla Point Board Riders
Cronulla Polar Bears
Cronulla RSL 55 & Over Club
Cronulla RSL Chess Club
Cronulla RSL Memorial Club
Cronulla RSL Swimming Club
Cronulla RSL Youth Hockey Club
Cronulla RSL Memorial Club
Cronulla Sutherland Water Polo Club
Cronulla Table Tennis Club
Elouera SLSC
Gorick Family
La Cucina Gymea
North Cronulla SLSC
Peter Moroney
Robert Clenow
Sandshoe Board Riders Club
Simon Earl - Labor Party
South Side Malibu Club
Sutherland Shire Council
Wanda SLSC
Wanda Surf Life Saving Club
Wondering Women
Woolooware Golf Club
These donations have provided lasting resources to local schools while continuing to honour the values of ANZAC Day — reflection, respect, and remembrance.
Enhancing the Memorial Experience
This year’s program was further enhanced by the thoughtful contribution of white wooden crosses, generously donated by Year 12 Construction students from De La Salle Catholic College, Caringbah. These crosses, respectfully placed at the Memorial, added a powerful visual element to the service and were a poignant reminder of the sacrifice ANZAC Day represents.
A Grateful Community
We are humbled by the ongoing support of our community. Every book, every voucher, and every act of generosity has helped to shape a program that now carries more meaning than ever.
Through Books in Lieu of Wreaths, the Cronulla Sub-Branch not only keeps the ANZAC spirit alive but also invests in the minds of future generations.
Thank you, Cronulla, for remembering through giving.