The Australian War Memorial (AWM) is a significant landmark in the heart of the Australian capital, Canberra. It serves as a shrine, museum, and archive, preserving the memory of the Australians who lost their lives in war or on active duty, as well as those who served during times of conflict. The Memorial’s core mission is to promote a better understanding of Australia’s wartime experience and to facilitate remembrance of the sacrifices made by the country’s brave servicemen and women.

The Great War

The loss of life in the First World War was catastrophic. From a population of fewer than five million, 60,000 Australians were killed, and 156,000 were wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner. The unimaginable scale of loss led to the creation of memorials across the country as a new way to express national grief. Shocked by the scale of death, historian and offical war correspondent Charles Bean proposed and advocated for a national memorial.

Charles Bean

Charles Bean was born in Bathurst, New South Wales on November 18, 1879. When he was ten, his family relocated to England, where he completed his education. Later, he returned to Australia and pursued a career in journalism. In 1914, the Journalists’ Association chose him as an official war correspondent.

Gallipoli

Bean arrived at Anzac Cove in Gallipoli at 10 a.m. on April 25, 1915, five and a half hours after the initial landing. Two weeks later, he joined two Australian brigades in a costly and failed attack at Cape Helles. For his assistance to the wounded soldiers under fire on the night of May 8, he was recommended for the Military Cross. However, as a civilian, he was not eligible for the award and was only mentioned in the dispatches. He was the only correspondent who stayed in Gallipoli from April to December.

On August 6, Bean was wounded in his right leg. Refusing to be taken off to a hospital ship, he hobbled to his dugout. Laying there and having the wound dressed daily until August 24, when he was well enough to again and observe the fighting. In 1916-18, Bean was in France to observe every engagement of the A.I.F. On his return to Australia he supervised the development of the 12-volume Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-1918. He also authored six volumes, finishing the final one in 1942.

A Legacy of Remembrance

On November 11, 1941, the Australian War Memorial was opened during World War II, on what is now known as Remembrance Day. This date holds immense importance as it marks the end of World War I, which significantly impacted Australia. Established to honour and preserve the memory of all Australians who have served in wars and conflicts, it acknowledges their sacrifices and ensures that their stories are remembered for generations to come.

John Treloar, who was from Melbourne, also landed on Gallipoli on April 25, 1915. Treloar was instrumental in making Bean’s vision a reality. In 1917, he became the head of the newly established Australian War Records Section (AWRS) in London. He was responsible for collecting records and relics for the future museum and assisting the official historian. Following the war, Treloar dedicated his life to the memorial, influencing almost every aspect of its development. He was appointed Director of the Memorial in 1920. Treloar held the position until his passing in 1952, except for a brief period during the Second World War when he was in charge of the Military History and Information Section (MHIS).

the Western Front

On July 19, 1916, the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) launched their first major attack on the Western Front in Fromelles, northern France. 7,000 Australian soldiers charged across open ground in broad daylight under heavy fire and direct observation from the German lines. By the next day, over 5,500 were wounded, and nearly 1,900 lay dead. These horrendous statistics made it the most devastating 24 hours in Australia’s history. In the following days, three Australian Divisions continued to attack German positions at Pozières. This resulted in an additional 23,000 casualties over six weeks.

‘The field of Pozières is more consecrated by Australian fighting and more hallowed by Australian blood than any field which has ever existed.

Charles Bean

Architectural marvel

The memorial’s design balanced the desire for an impressive monument to honour the fallen soldiers and a budget of only £250,000. In 1927, an architectural competition was held, but none of the designs submitted were satisfactory. However, two entrants, Emil Sodersteen and John Crust, were encouraged to combine their designs. Sodersteen’s vision for the building and Crust’s idea of cloisters to house the Roll of Honour with over 60,000 names were incorporated into the joint design. This was ultimately accepted, and the joint design serves as the foundation of the building we see today.

In the middle of the memorial site is a Commemorative Area surrounded by arched cloisters. Bronze panels hold the Roll of Honour, listing the names of those who have lost their lives. Beyond the cloisters stands the impressive Hall of Memory at the edge of the Pool of Reflection. The interior wall and dome of the hall are covered in a mosaic of six million pieces. Stunning stained-glass windows also line the walls. Within the Hall of Memory lies the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier.

Redevelopment

The Australian War Memorial received funding approval for a development project in 2018. The goal of the Memorial’s redevelopment is to acknowledge the service of our country’s veterans, both now and in the future. The project involves constructing a new southern entrance, a new Anzac Hall, and fitting out new galleries in the main building, which will create additional exhibition spaces. A new research center and reading room have been included in an extension to the CEW Bean Building. Parade Ground and landscaping works have also been carried out to accommodate increased attendance at events.

According to the Australian War Memorial’s website, the proposed development project is estimated to cost $498 million. However, the final cost of the project could be up to $527 million due to additional costs such as inflation, unforeseen circumstances, and additional work. The sandstone building’s iconic façade housing the Roll of Honour, Pool of Reflection, and Hall of Memory will remain unchanged.

Education and Commemoration

The AWM plays a crucial role in educating visitors about the country’s military history and the impact of war on humanity. This museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts. Item such as weapons, uniforms, diaries, and photographs, offer valuable insights into Australian service personnel’s lives. Through its permanent and temporary exhibitions, the memorial delves into different aspects of Australia’s involvement in conflicts. These reveal the bravery, perseverance, and selflessness of those who served.

Significantly, the Australian War Memorial is also a historical landmark and a place for commemorative ceremonies. These ceremonies are held on important days such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day. The Last Post ceremony is held every day at the memorial. The poignant tribute allows visitors to reflect on the personal stories of the fallen soldiers.

sculptural monument

The AWM houses a series called “As of Today” by Alex Seton. It is a sculptural tribute to Australian soldiers who were killed while serving in Afghanistan. The series particularly emphasizes the ceremonial folded flag that is draped over the casket during the military funeral and then presented to the fallen soldier’s family.

Each of the forty three flags are sculpted in Australian marble and represents a specific individual and a life lost. The name and details of the individual on a card in front of the flag.

Sacred Site

The Australian War Memorial is much more than a museum. It is a revered site representing remembrance of the sacrifices made by Australians during times of war. With its stunning architecture, educational initiatives, and commemorative events, it plays a crucial role in Australian society ensuring that past sacrifices are never forgotten. Additionally, it fosters a deeper understanding of the nation’s history and emphasises the importance of peace.