Essendon Football Club has observed a special Anzac Day Commemorative Service.

More than 200 people including current players, coaches, staff, board members and former Essendon players who have served the country were at the True Value Solar Centre for the ceremony.

Kevin Sheedy, Major Garth Calender and local Primary School student Manaan Buch addressed the gathering.

“It was a great service here this morning,” Bomber ruckman Tom Bellchambers said.

“It’s a massive week on the football calendar.  It’s a great start to the week.” 

Bellchambers was among a small group of Essendon players who visited Gallipoli during the off-season.

“It’s going to mean a little bit more standing out there on Anzac Day this year. 

“It was an amazing experience.  It’s probably one of the best travel experiences I’ve had.”

Bellchambers said the trip provided he, Jobe Watson and Cale Hooker a significant insight into the remarkable acts of bravery carried out by Australian soldiers 100 years ago.

“When you pull on the jumper on Anzac Day you represent a lot more than just the Football Club,” he said. 

Click here to secure your tickets to the ANZAC Day Brunch at Crown Palladium.  This includes a reserve seat for the Essendon vs Collingwood clash at the MCG.