Over 100,000 Australians have lost their lives in the service and defence of our country. Along with their mates, they're marching once again, in the towns and cities, across our great land.
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 simply highlights the sacrifice of many Australians who died in the service and defence of our country in war.
The song has been used for commemorative purposes across Australia by schools, churches, choirs, bands, councils, retirement homes, military services, RSL branches and ANZAC tributes at NRL & AFL matches.
Many schools throughout Australia use this song for commemorative purposes.
Radio stations throughout Australia have broadcast the song leading up to ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day.
The song is also requested to be played at funerals (for veterans).
"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
Many Australians who lost their lives in war weren't thinking they could save the world or defeat evil regimes. As in the trenches of WW1, and the patrols in Vietnam, or on the Kokoda Track, Australians were looking after their mates alongside them. Many Australian veterans march on ANZAC Day in memory of their mates left behind, and the ones that have passed on before them.
"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
"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
"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
*The song was requested to be used again for the ANZAC tribute in the 2007 round 7 NRL match when the Brisbane Broncos played Melbourne Storm. This was the third time the song has been requested to be played by the Brisbane Broncos for their ANZAC tribute. It was also used in 2004 and 2006. The song was used as part of the ANZAC tribute in the 2008 round 7 NRL match between the Brisbane Broncos and the South Sydney Rabbitohs on ANZAC Day, 25 April, at Suncorp Stadium.
"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
"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
Peter Barnes initiated the Australian War Heroes song in 2001. He is the author (and copyright owner) of the song and he created the concept, title and lyrics.
You can now download the Original Version (2001) of 'Can You Hear Australia's Heroes Marching?' FOR FREE at the song's official website download page HERE
You can also download a longer 4 minute version of the song FOR FREE as well at the same download page. Sheet music and backing track mp3 is available to purchase at the download page. Sheet music includes full arrangement, choir, solo voice, piano, guitar (bass & electric), trumpet and drum kit.
You can also download the lyrics to 'Can You Hear Australia's Heroes Marching?
