ANZAC Park has reopened to the public with the removal of construction fencing marking the completion of its major redevelopment in the heart of Bundaberg.
The revitalised riverside precinct, located along Quay Street in the CBD, now offers a thoughtfully designed space for reflection, remembrance and community gathering, honouring the region’s proud wartime history.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the completion of the project marked a significant milestone for the Bundaberg Region.
“ANZAC Park has always held deep meaning for our community and this redevelopment ensures it continues to serve as a space where we can gather to commemorate and reflect,” she said.
“From the rolling hills of Gallipoli represented in design elements to the 1.5 m high ‘remember’ sign – every detail has been carefully crafted to honour our servicemen and women.”
The design of the park, shaped by veteran and community consultation, includes a memorial avenue with a series of interpretive plinths that explore key wartime themes: service, homefront, return and honouring as well as the commemoration of ANZAC Pool plaques, including the foundation stone laid by Angel of Durban Ethel Campbell on 25 August 1923.
“These installations ensure local stories are preserved and passed on to future generations.”
Mayor Blackburn said the reopening of the redeveloped area would see ANZAC Park continue to be a focal point for annual commemorative events into the future.
“Anzac Park is where we come together each ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day and now we have a space that reflects the deep respect and gratitude this community holds for our wartime history,” she said.
“It’s more than a park. It’s a living memorial.”
An official opening of ANZAC Park will be held in coming weeks when the memorial elements will be blessed.
Work continues on the amenity block and other features to finalise the project and the final budget figure cannot be confirmed until all works are complete.
