As part of the its activity to commemorate the centenary of the 11 November 1918 Armistice, which brought about the end of World War I, the Australian War Memorial opened its commemorative area for night-time viewing (up to 10pm) on a number of weekends running up 11 November 2018. This rare event allowed visitors to see the memorial in a different light. Again, as part of its commemorative programme visitors were also able to enjoy the Memorial’s temporary 62,000 Poppy Display by night. Continue reading “The Australian War Memorial At Night”
62,000 Poppies Display
In the run up to and as part of its commemorative activities to mark the 100th anniversary of the ending of World War I on 11 November 1918 the Australian War Memorial commissioned a rather haunting and melancholy display of poppies, bathing the western gardens of the Memorial in a sea of red. A moving musical program, created by Chris Latham, the Memorial’s recently appointed musical artist in residence, beautifully complemented the display. The idea of having a musical artist in residence really appeals to me and Chris has got of to a flying start with this project! Continue reading “62,000 Poppies Display”
Commemorative Courtyard and Roll of Honour
As you enter the Australian War Memorial, passing between two medieval stone lions that once stood at the gateway of the Menin road at Ypres, now Ieper, your eyes will be immediately drawn to the copper clad dome of the Hall of Memory wherein lies the Tomb of Australia’s Unknown Soldier. Continue reading “Commemorative Courtyard and Roll of Honour”
Australian War Memorial – Lest We Forget
This a summary and introductory review on the Australian War Memorial. On it you will find links to more detailed reviews on aspects of the memorial that I find particularly interesting (lots!) in addition to a little general comment.
“Here is their spirit, in the heart of the land they loved; and here we guard the record which they themselves made.” Charles Bean, 1948. Continue reading “Australian War Memorial – Lest We Forget”
Jamestown War Memorial and the RFA Darkdale
It is very easy to think of places like St Helena as idyllic little tropical backwaters of Empire where nothing much happens and all the people are jolly happy chappies. Indeed this often holds true but Her Majesty’s Government doesn’t pump millions into places like with no expectations of future return or sense of repayment for past favours. Continue reading “Jamestown War Memorial and the RFA Darkdale”
The Rambling Wombat 