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Racing Victoria’s Community Program will visit two Melbourne schools for a special ANZAC-themed educational program ahead of the ANZAC Day race meetings at Flemington, Moe and Avoca on April 25.

Horses are ingrained in ANZAC history, with more than 136,000 having travelled to the battlefields from Australian shores during World War One.

RV’s Community Program will teach pupils at both Fitzroy Primary School and St Joseph’s Primary School in Collingwood the story of ‘Sandy’, the only horse to return to Australia after WWI.

Racing Victoria has also pledged a $200,000 donation to the ANZAC Day Proceeds Fund, which provides practical support to the veteran community through the provision of funding for a range of welfare-related activities.

“ANZAC Day is always a special occasion in the racing calendar, with the industry uniting to remember the brave men, women and indeed horses who sacrificed their lives for their country,” RV Chief Executive Giles Thompson said.

“Flemington, Moe and Avoca will all stage family-friendly fixtures, giving racegoers young and old the chance to take part in a range of activities that observe the ANZAC spirit.”

On ANZAC Day at Flemington, a traditional ceremonial ritual will be held to commemorate the Australian and New Zealand men and women who died in battle, and the contribution of those who have served both countries during war.

Sabrina Durante will perform the Australian national anthem accompanied by the Moonee Valley Brass Band, who will also play the ‘Last Post’ and the ‘Rouse’.

There will be free entry and a complimentary drink for all current and former Australian Defence Force personnel and Returned and Services League of Australia members, who are also encouraged to take part in the formal proceedings.

The family-friendly day will feature traditional games of two-up for the adults and the screening of the AFL match between Collingwood and Essendon, while free kids’ activities on the front lawn include tug-of-war, pony rides and face-painting.

On the course, the eight-race program is highlighted by the running of the $200,000 Listed VRC St. Leger (2800m), and jockeys riding the top-weighted horse in each race will wear a special set of ANZAC Day silks.

At Moe Racing Club, entry is also free for current and former ADF personnel and RSL members. Attendees should bring appropriate identification or medals, or come dressed in their uniform.

The specially-designed silks will also be used in each race, and jockeys will take part in an ANZAC Day guard of honour which will include a flag-raising ceremony before the first race.

Patrons can enjoy live music, play a traditional game of two-up or watch the AFL on the big screen, and kids will be kept entertained with free activities all day courtesy of Kelly Sports.

This year marks the last ANZAC Day meeting at Avoca, as the club will replace the traditional fixture with a new race date in March in 2019.