A special tribute to the troops who served during the Siege of Tobruk in 1941 will soon take root in Bundaberg’s memorial spaces, following a generous donation of plants.
The Siege of Tobruk was a major campaign of the Second World War, during which Australian and Allied troops defended the strategically important Libyan port against German and Italian forces for eight months.
Locals Bruce and Carolyn Quinn recently delivered four ‘No Surrender’ roses and a Tobruk fig to Bundaberg Regional Council on behalf of Betty Murphy, founder of the Descendants of the Rats of Tobruk Association Australia.
The Rats of Tobruk were Australian and allied troops who defended Tobruk, Libya, during the siege.
Known for their resilience and determination, the Australian defenders became known as the ‘Rats of Tobruk’ after the nickname was reportedly used by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill to describe the troops who lived and fought in the fortress-like conditions.
The roses and fig have been planted at the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Park and Buss Park.
A living connection to Tobruk
Bundaberg-based Rats of Tobruk association member Bruce Quinn said the plants carried deep historical meaning and provided a tangible connection to the experiences of those who served at Tobruk.
“The famous Tobruk Fig Tree was named because it marked the entrance to an underground network of caves used by the Australians to treat the wounded,” he said.
“This became known as the Fig Tree Hospital.
“Located inside the Tobruk defences near the Red Line and north of the Derna Road, the fig tree was the only feature in an otherwise barren desert.
“It was visible from miles away and as a result was an easy target for German artillery.”
“It is believed that the original tree still marks the spot today.”
The ‘No Surrender’ Rose was named to commemorate the 80th anniversary of The Siege of Tobruk’ in April 2021.
Honouring service through our public spaces
Along with the plants, a commemorative plaque will be installed to recognise the significance of the donation.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said it was a meaningful addition to the region’s memorial spaces.
“This is a wonderful example of how our community continues to honour and preserve the stories of those who came before us,” she said.
“These plants will provide a living connection to history and will help future generations understand the significance of the sacrifices made by the troops of Tobruk.”
The donation comes after Council’s ongoing work to enhance and protect significant public spaces, including the Rats of Tobruk Memorial Park and Buss Park.
