ANZAC DAY is nearly upon us again, by jingo. And it is by jingoism that many historians now believe the myths surrounding this most hallowed day have diverted us from the truth. Three recent books argue it is about time this was corrected.

A former army officer and historian for the Department of Veterans Affairs, Graham Wilson, says one of the most persistent myths was of the great independent Aussie bushman instantly transformed into a fabled fighter.

A diversion from the truths ... the myths surrounding Anzac Day. Credit:Mike Bowers

''We were not a disciplined fighting force like the British, or even the New Zealanders, and had an appalling discipline record,'' he said.

He has analysed the careers of soldiers who joined up and found that between 7 per cent and 25 per cent were from the country.