The Memorial, at the former School of Artillery, on Sydney’s North Head, is in reality a combination of two memorials; the Defence of Sydney Monument and the Australia’s Memorial Walk.
The Defence of Sydney Monument, which honours those who served in defence of Sydney during the Second World War, was unveiled in 1995 as part of the Australia Remembers programme. The design brings together familiar elements of defence activities on and around Sydney Harbour and the Monument takes the form of a lookout. The circular sandstone base of the Monument is symbolic of both coast artillery gun emplacements and observation posts. The timber walkway and platform represent both a gangplank and a wharf, and the stainless steel railing has a strong nautical quality and reinforces the feeling of standing on the bridge of a ship. Aerial observation of the structure reveals the form of a radial aircraft engine complete with propeller spinning and cowling.
The plan form of the sandstone wall, as it intersects the circle, suggests the leading edge of a wing. Australia’s Memorial Walk honours those Australians who served in defence of the Country in both war and peace. It consists of five monuments that are linked by a pathway, made-up of engraved pavers that have been donated by friends, families, local organisations and units, recognising the service of Australian individuals and units. The entrance to the Walk has a sandstone block bearing the badges of the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces, the Royal Australian Air Force and the Australian Merchant Navy.
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