The Australian War Heroes Song ‘Can You Hear Australia’s Heroes Marching?’, recorded in 2001, is a national war memorial song and a tribute to the ANZAC spirit of mateship, courage, and sacrifice.
The song is timeless and honours the memory of those who have died in the service and defence of Australia in war.
The marching theme of the song is especially powerful and supports the spirit of ANZAC Day. The song does not glorify war or endorse conflict of any kind.
The song has been used for commemorative purposes across Australia by schools, churches, choirs, bands, councils, retirement homes, military services, radio stations, RSL branches, and ANZAC tributes at NRL and AFL matches.
The song has been popular with school children and students in primary and secondary schools to use for commemorative purposes. The song has also been requested to be played at veteran funerals.
The YouTube Channel for the song has close to 4 million video views, with most viewing videos relating to the popular song.
The song is suitable as an ANZAC Day song and Remembrance Day song.
The global aspect of the internet allowed many people from other countries to hear the song. For instance, some years ago a publishing house in Norway asked for the song. “The Norwegian publishing house Aschehoug is about to publish a new series of English schoolbooks for 8-10th grade in the Norwegian market. In this new series, called Key English, we want to make use of the song ‘Can You Hear Australia’s Heroes Marching?’”
The Korean, Malayan and Indonesian War Memorial in Berri, South Australia, has a plaque that includes the words of the song, in memory of the 339 Australian servicemen killed in the Korean War June 1950 – July 1953.
Can you hear Australia’s heroes marching?
The ones who fought and gave their all
Can you hear Australia’s heroes marching?
Can you hear them as they march into eternity?
There will never be a greater love
There just couldn’t be a greater sacrifice
There just couldn’t be
Can you hear Australia’s heroes marching?
Korea & South East Asia Forces Association Riverland Branch June 2012.
The War Memorial commemorates those who died in service or were killed in action in the Korean War, the Malayan conflict, and the Indonesian confrontation. The location of the War Memorial is Riverview Drive, Berri, South Australia.
The Full Arrangement Sheet Music comes in two pdf files that can be downloaded below.
Some of the comments regarding the song…
“Congratulations on your very professionally presented song, ‘Can You Hear Australia’s Heroes Marching?’ It is most patriotic, stirring and respectfully thought provoking.” Major General Peter Phillips AO MC (Retd) National President of the RSL
“Thanks for your note on your song which I played the other night and got a terrific reaction. Many of the listeners on the 28 stations to which we broadcast want to know if it can be purchased anywhere?” John Kerr (2UE)
“The CD was great. We put it over the P.A. system in the park on ANZAC Day and the whole town has been humming the tune ever since.” Collie Cardiff RSL – Western Australia
“Last Sunday, the Brisbane Broncos played the Penrith Panthers at Suncorp Stadium in a round 7 NRL match. The match including the ceremony was shown live on Fox Sports. At 2.25pm there was a special Anzac tribute and your wonderful song was played as the special guests, match officials and both teams entered the stadium. They walked on in staggered starts escorted by Army service personnel to the music and it was absolutely wonderful. They all lined up in one line and the ‘toss’ was performed by an 85 yr old POW veteran. The Qld Premier with match referee and both team captains. The Qld President of the RSL read the Ode and a Navy bugler played the Last Post. It was a very moving few minutes and everyone loved it. You should be very proud of your song. Thanks again for permitting us to use the song. I have played it probably 30 times over the last month. It moves me every time, the words are reflective of our appreciation for these men & women.” Brian McGrath – Operations Manager – Brisbane Broncos Football Club
“We, the ACT TPI Association, have been asked by the Federation of the TPI Association to create the same CD using your song for a national campaign to Federal politicians. The Federation has asked me to ask your permission to use your song on the national campaign. They only intend sending the CDs to the Federal and other local State politicians. For your information, we have found the CD of great benefit in informing our local politicians of just what is a TPI. Could you please advise if your approval is given to the Federation using your song on the CD?” TPI – Totally and Permanently Incapacitated Ex Servicemen and Women
“We also heard the song here in Kimbe, West New Britain, Papua New Guinea. I am organising a Dusk Service here to commemorate ANZAC Day & would much appreciate a copy of your great composition.” – E-mail request
“I thought the music was a modern reflection on Australia’s war dead… As a Vietnam veteran I would have to say that it is a wonderful tribute to all who have fallen.” Edmund ‘Ted’ Harrison
“I am taking a funeral tomorrow of a Vietnam Vet who died last week of cancer. The family would like to use your song… I am asking for permission to use it at the funeral.” E-mail from a Reverend
“Just a quick note to say thank you for the use of your song, and to let you know that our Anzac Day ceremony (held today) was an outstanding success. The overwhelming reaction that I got was due mostly to your beautiful remembrance song. I received so many favourable comments, and there was even some tears amongst those that attended. We had a couple of returned servicemen as our special guests and speakers, and they too were very moved by it. So thank you once again.” – Email from a school.
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