I thought was a lovely tribute. A really impressive monument on the tallest hill in Albany. Plenty... read more
I thought was a lovely tribute. A really impressive monument on the tallest hill in Albany. Plenty... read more
The Desert Mounted Corps Memorial is in Albany WA if you are in Albany this is a must see in my... read more
We recently visited the Anzac Memorial in Albany. What a moving time it was. The centre is extremely well organized and you get a card that links to an actual soldier and you can follow his story through the time he / she were overseas.
The soldier I followed had a very tough time, getting injured then suffering illness and being admitted to hospital. Two days after he was released his commander ordered him on night sentry duty and he fell asleep. He was arrested for dereliction of duty, sentenced to death [a bit harsh] but the sentence was put on hold till the end of the conflict. In the end it didn't matter as he was killed a couple of weeks later after he was returned to the front line to fight. A very sad situation and moving.
The view is excellent from here as long as you get a clear day. The steps are well worth the effort.
Before you get thoroughly immersed in the National Anzac Centre, turn left at the roundabout and drive up the Avenue of Honour. Stop along the way and read some of the engraved metal stations on each side of the road which leads eventually to the Memorial. It has a huge stone base surmounted by a bronze statue of 2 soldiers with their horses. Quite impressive and visually stunning ......as is the panoramic view across the water. Well worth the time to visit.
The walk up the stepped treelined path was well worth it. A stunning memorial looks out over the coastline. The statues atop the memorial are a replica of a desiccated memorial in Port Said in Egypt. The carved granite slab seats reflect the area and the site has an auspicious feel to it. A wonderful tribute.
The main car park for the monument is at the base of the stairs leading up. However, there is parking at the top for disabled travelers. As you climb the stairs you can read information panels which gives you an opportunity to stop and catch your breath before continueing the climb! The memorial it'self is interesting due to the fact it's a replacement for the almost identical one originally situated in Port Said, Egypt which was destroyed in 1956 by nationalists during the Suez Crisis. If it had not been for local benefactors then the monument would most likely have been placed in Canberra. From the base there's a good view over the Sound but if you continue a bit further to Padre White's lookout then they're spectacular and panoramic. It's definately worth taking time to read all the information panels around the Monument in order to give you a good background.
The memorial is very well done, and is well worth the walk for the able bodied visitor - albeit it is possible to reach it by car for the less able. The statue is very evocative, and the views give the memorial a special place that it so deserves. Least we all should forget their sacrifice.....