08/08/2026
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The Brightlingsea Free Music Fest were absolutely thrilled to present Australian icon Alan Fletcher with a commemorative photograph marking a milestone for Brightlingsea.
The presentation was made backstage by former Mayor of Brightlingsea, Mick Barry and Festival organiser Gary Gilders, following a brilliant idea from Gary.
They were honouring the 110th anniversary of the 1916 ANZAC arrival. During WWI, thousands of Australian and New Zealand soldiers were billeted in Brightlingsea, on Bayard Recreation Ground and with local families opening up their homes and hearts to the troops.
The presentation took place during the 26th anniversary of the Brightlingsea Free Music Festival, making it the perfect moment to celebrate both their local festival heritage and their enduring historical bonds.
Having an Australian star like Alan performing on the very same ground where his countrymen were billeted and trained over a century ago brought their history beautifully full circle.
A massive thank you to Alan, Mick, and Gary for helping us keep the memory of the Brightlingsea ANZAC boys alive.