Australian War Memorial

About the Australian War Memorial

The Australian War Memorial is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by Australia's armed forces members in conflicts spanning over a century. Opened in 1941, the memorial occupies an important location in Canberra, the capital city of Australia. It is located at the northern terminal of Anzac Parade, an important ceremonial route forming part of the city's central design axis. The Memorial's location was carefully chosen to reflect its national importance, being the pivotal point in the design of Canberra. The Memorial includes an extensive national military museum to educate and commemorate the contributions and sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women. Visiting the memorial offers a tangible link between the past and present, reminding us of all of the sacrifices made for our freedom and democracy.

Initially intended as a museum dedicated only to the country's involvement in World War I, the Australian War Memorial has transformed into a space to remember all Australian involvement in wars. With the threat of a second world war looming in 1939, the memorial's Board of Management decided to expand the purpose of the building to commemorate all Australian war experiences. Following its completion in 1941, Lord Gowrie, a former soldier and Victoria Cross recipient, officially opened the memorial. Additions have since been made to include the remembrance of recent conflicts, such as the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier, added in 1993 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War I. The Australian War Memorial honours the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers in wars abroad and serves as a space to ensure their bravery is not forgotten.

Things to do at Australian War Memorial

The Australian War Memorial has recently unveiled a beautiful sculpture of Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel AO, MBE, ARRC, ED, marking a historic moment for the memorial. This is the first time an individual nurse or woman has been recognized with a sculpture on the grounds of the Australian War Memorial. The project, a collaboration with the Australian College of Nursing, aims to honour the life and legacy of Vivian Bullwinkel and all the Australian nurses who have served their country, lost their lives, or endured atrocities. Brisbane-based artist Dr Charles Robb created the sculpture, which includes 22 inlaid stainless steel discs. These discs represent the 22 women who were tragically killed in the Banka Island Massacre, of whom Vivian Bullwinkel was the sole survivor. The way the discs are arranged at the base of the sculpture, reflecting the stars that would have been visible in the night sky on 16 February 1942, adds to the overall beauty and significance of the artwork, which is a magnificent tribute to Australia's brave nurses.

The Australian War Memorial is a historic institution with a special place in the nation's heart. This September, the institution will host a remarkable event- The Big Things in Store. This event will allow you to see one of the world's largest collections of military relics, including aircraft, rockets, tanks, and artillery. The Treloar Technology Centre in Mitchell, ACT, will host the event on Saturday, September 2, 2023, between 9 am and 4.45 pm. To maintain social distancing, all visitors, including children, must have a free 2-hour timed ticket to attend. You don't want to miss this rare opportunity to witness history in all its glory. So, mark your calendars and register for The Big Things in Store at the Australian War Memorial.

One local company in Canberra that is involved in this tourist attraction site:

Website: Top Notch Canberra Concrete

Address: 1001/2 Captain Cook Cres, Griffith ACT 2603

Phone: (02) 6130 0783

Original source: https://www.concretingservicescanberra.com.au/blog/australian-war-memorial