Sydney has once again proven its unmatched Anzac Day spirit as thousands of revellers lined up outside pubs from as early as 8:45 am, eager to kick off a full day of remembrance, mateship, and the iconic game of 2 up.
Figure 1: Queues stretched around the block well before doors opened. Picture: Instagram/Sackvillehotel
Massive Queues Kick Off the Day
Wild scenes erupted outside the Clovelly Hotel in Sydney’s eastern suburbs before 9 am on Friday, with a queue stretching down the street. Dozens of eager pubgoers waited patiently to score a spot for a beer and to enjoy the traditional two-up Anzac Day festivities.
“Anzac Day 2025 lines begin,” read a caption from Bondi Lines on Instagram, alongside footage of the snaking line.
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In Paddington, the Bellevue Hotel had patrons queuing metres down the street by 9:40 am. The Royal Hotel Paddington hit full capacity by 10 am. In the inner west, Balmain’s Sackville Hotel also drew early birds, with crowds forming 20 metres down the street before opening time.
The Sackville is known for its epic Anzac Day celebrations, featuring DJs, grandstand seating, food, and 2 up from midday.
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Two-Up: The Anzac Day Tradition
2 up, a game played by Australian soldiers in the trenches of WWI, remains a central tradition on Anzac Day. The game, which involves tossing two coins into the air and betting on how they’ll land, is banned on most days of the year, except on Anzac Day and certain other commemorative events.
While most states only permit two-up Anzac Day, Victoria allows the game in the week leading up to it. And Broken Hill in NSW is the exception to the rule, where a special licence allows 2 up year-round.
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A Morning of Beer and Brotherhood
Revellers wasted no time getting into the spirit. Early-goers clutched their beers, soaking up the early morning vibe outside their favourite haunts.
Bondi Lines, which now offers an app for live queue updates, reported over three million people visited Sydney pubs last Anzac Day — and 2025 looks set to match or exceed that figure.
Venues Brace for Record Crowds
Hospitality giant Solotel, which owns Sydney hotspots including the Golden Sheaf, Clock Hotel, and Courthouse Hotel, confirmed
The Golden Sheaf will host “the biggest 2UP in the East” in its beer garden, while the Clock Hotel in Surry Hills is spilling onto Collins Street with themed menus and they’re preparing for thousands of visitors across the day.live entertainment.
“It’s set to be a full day of remembrance and community celebration,” said a Solotel spokesperson.
Police Ramp Up Presence Across NSW
NSW Police have confirmed a major operation is underway to keep the day safe and respectful. Officers are stationed at major events including the Dawn Service, Anzac Day March, and Sunset Service, along with a strong presence at licensed venues.
“[Officers] will have a zero tolerance for anti-social behaviour or alcohol and drug-related crime,” police warned.
Crowd control, public transport safety, and the enforcement of Alcohol-Free Zones remain top priorities.
“We’re expecting large crowds in the CBD to pay their respects to our veterans and service men and women,” NSW Police said. “Plan ahead, use public transport and follow the directions of authorities.”
North Bondi RSL Sparks Controversy
While most venues embrace the tradition of 2 up Anzac Day, North Bondi RSL has made a controversial move to scrap the game in 2025.
The club, which will still host its Dawn Service at Bondi Beach, said the decision followed feedback from veteran members aiming to keep the venue “family-friendly”.
CEO Blake Johnson said that when two-up began in the afternoon in previous years, the atmosphere became “significantly more rowdy,” often prompting families to leave.
While some locals applauded the decision, others took to social media labelling it “un-Australian” and “disgraceful”.
Still, the majority of Sydney’s pubs are all-in, honouring tradition with community spirit and spinning coins.
A Day of Remembrance and Revelry
Anzac Day in Australia balances solemn remembrance with joyful community. From dawn services to the clink of pints at the pub, Aussies honour sacrifice while celebrating the spirit that binds them.
And whether you’re up early for a beer, tossing coins in a game of 2 up, or simply watching it all unfold online, there’s no denying — this tradition is as Australian as it gets.
