AT THE FESTIVAL
Emergency Services Parade
A community tribute celebrating our emergency services!
The Emergency Services Parade is a powerful and highly respected SunFest tradition, recognising the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the emergency services who support and protect our community every day.
After several years without an Emergency Services Parade / Torchlight Processional, 2026 marks the first time in a long while that SunFest is proudly bringing this important event back as part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations. Its return is a meaningful moment - honouring the vital role emergency services play in our community and reconnecting SunFest with a tradition that has long been valued by residents and participants alike.
As the parade makes its way through Sunbury, emergency vehicles, uniforms and personnel create a striking and memorable presence along the streets. Country Fire Authority (CFA), Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV), Victoria State Emergency Service (SES), Ambulance Victoria (AV), St John Ambulance, Victoria Police (VICPOL) and other emergency service representatives proudly participate, giving the community an opportunity to come together and show genuine appreciation for those who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
This special event is both a celebration and a thank-you, bringing the community together in a shared moment of respect, gratitude and connection as SunFest marks its milestone year.
What To Expect
The Emergency Services Parade offers an engaging experience for all ages. With lights flashing and sirens sounding, the parade features emergency vehicles, uniforms and personnel from across our region, creating a moving tribute that brings our community together in gratitude and respect.
You can expect:
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Emergency vehicles including police, fire, ambulance and SES units
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Personnel in full uniform, representing a wide range of roles and services
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Coordinated formations and ceremonial marching
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Flashing lights, sirens and illuminated vehicles creating a striking visual display
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Community salutes and moments of acknowledgement along the route
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Opportunities to see emergency service equipment up close
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A respectful, reflective atmosphere balanced with celebration and pride
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A strong sense of unity between emergency services and the local community
This parade moves at a steady pace and is designed to be accessible and family-friendly.
When & Where
The Emergency Services Parade takes place as part of the SunFest weekend and runs along Sunbury's main street, offering plenty of viewing opportunities for the community.
DATE
Saturday 14th March 2026
STARTING TIME
To Be Confirmed
ROUTE
Harker Street > O'Shanassy Street
DURATION
30 minutes
Parade Route & Viewing Areas
The Emergency Services Parade follows the same route as the SunFest Grand Street Parade, travelling along Harker Street, turning left into O’Shanassy Street and through the Main Street, bringing the heart of town to life in a powerful and meaningful display of service and community pride. The route has been carefully planned to ensure accessibility, with ample space for spectators to line the streets and respectfully view the parade as it passes by.
Spectators are encouraged to take in the experience from various points along the route, where the scale, coordination and presence of the parade can be fully appreciated.
Best Viewing Tips:
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Refer to the route map to choose your preferred viewing location
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Arrive early for the best vantage points, particularly in popular areas
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Intersections and open spaces along O’Shanassy Street often provide great views
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Families with young children may prefer spots with extra space to sit or stand back from the curb
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Please follow all directions from event marshals and volunteers to help ensure a safe and enjoyable event
Who's Involved -
A Moment of Thanks ❤️
Every role plays a part in keeping our community safe!
The Emergency Services Parade proudly features representatives from a range of local emergency and support services, which may include:
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CFA
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FRV
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SES
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Ambulance Victoria
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St John Ambulance
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SES and rescue organisations
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Community safety and support units
Participation may vary year to year, but each group involved plays a vital role in protecting and supporting our community.
The SunFest Emergency Services Parade is first and foremost a moment of gratitude. This parade recognises the extraordinary people who serve across our emergency and support services who respond in times of crisis and work year-round to protect and support our community.
With much of Australia currently experiencing severe fire conditions in 2026, we acknowledge that emergency services may be actively responding to incidents and protecting lives and property at the time of SunFest. Operational priorities will always come first.
Whether represented by vehicles, personnel, logos, or simply in spirit, this event remains a heartfelt thank you to every emergency service worker and volunteer who stands ready to help when our community needs it most.
As the parade passes, or as we pause to reflect, we invite our community to show their appreciation with applause, waves and quiet moments of respect for those who serve, often in challenging and dangerous conditions.
Learn More & Get Involved
Many emergency and community support services rely on a combination of dedicated professionals, trained volunteers and strong community support to operate effectively.
If you’ve ever been curious about how these services work, interested in learning more, or exploring ways to support or get involved, there are a variety of pathways available from volunteering and community education roles to careers, fundraising and advocacy.
Opportunities vary between organisations, and training or qualifications may be required. We encourage anyone interested to learn more directly from the individual services to find the right fit.
Every role plays a part in keeping our community safe - on the front line and behind the scenes.
Join us! Become a SunFest Committee Member or Friend of SunFest!
Join us and become a part of the SunFest Family! Whether you're interested in taking an active role as a committee member or simply want to support us as a Friend of SunFest on the festival weekend, your involvement helps make our festival shine.
Join the fun, make lasting memories, and be a part of something big. We can't wait to have you on board!
Captured at SunFest...
Emergency Service Parade & Torchlight Procession (Previous Festivals)
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