As you approach Stop 3, ANZAC Square, look to your left. You'll see a beautifully landscaped green space flanked by mature palm trees and bottle trees. The square is framed by grand, heritage-listed buildings on either side, standing tall as a backdrop to this serene setting. Straight ahead, you'll notice the centerpiece-the Shrine of Remembrance with its distinct colonnades. You'll also see various war memorial statues, offering a sense of solemn reverence throughout the space.
Now, let’s dive into the story behind this beautiful landmark!
ANZAC Square is more than just a pretty park-it's a heritage-listed town square and war memorial dedicated to the brave men and women who participated in overseas armed service. Located between Ann Street and Adelaide Street, just opposite Post Office Square, it honors the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, from which it gets its name.
Opened on Armistice Day in 1930, the square features the Shrine of Remembrance, which includes the ‘Eternal Flame of Remembrance’ kept in a continuously lit bronze urn. The square doesn’t just commemorate a single war; it pays homage to the heroes of multiple conflicts including World War II, the Vietnam War, the Second Boer War, and campaigns in Korea, Borneo, and New Guinea.
One of the most poignant additions in recent years is the memorial to Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women. Unveiled in 2022, this sculptural memorial designed by Wakka Wakka artist John Smith Gumbula and sculptor Liam Hardy features life-size bronze figures that tell a story of leaving home to serve via air, land, and sea.
Every year on April 25th, a Dawn Service is held to remember and honor the sacrifices made. The symbolism within the square is profound-the 18 columns of the Shrine represent the year of peace after World War I, 1918, and the number of stairs leading up to the shrine symbolize the same year with 19 stairs in the first row and 18 in the second.
Take a moment to absorb the calm and honor the past as you explore this significant and historical site. And remember, those palms are not just there for good looks-they're Middle Eastern date palms symbolizing Australia’s victories in Middle Eastern battles during the World Wars. Pretty cool, huh? Happy exploring!
Interested in a deeper dive into the symbolism, description or the anzac square restoration and enhancement? Join me in the chat section for an insightful conversation.
