Some quiet corners in our city carry the memory of Australians who served in the armed forces.
The Glebe War Memorial commemorates those from the district who died in service or were killed in action during World War One. Inside the memorial is a shrine containing the names of those who lost their lives.
In 2015, a descendant of the original Lone Pine from Gallipoli was planted beside the monument to mark the centenary of Anzac. This tree is related to the Lone Pine in Canberra, grown from cones sent home by Australian soldiers in 1915 from the solitary pine on the Gallipoli Peninsula.
Lone pines once grew wild across the Gallipoli Peninsula but were removed by Turkish soldiers before the Gallipoli landing in 1915, leaving only one lone pine standing.
In 1921, the statue was erected by the Committee of the Pyrmont–Ultimo Districts as a Roll of Honour to men of the district who enlisted in the AIF. Their names can be found on bronze tablets on each face of the pedestal.
An inscription on the shield held in the left hand of the winged woman atop the pedestal reads:
“Their Name Liveth For Ever More”
Find out more about this memorial.
The Archibald Fountain, located in Hyde Park north, is an important example in Sydney of the classical revivalist sculpture of the 1920s and 1930s, known as Art Deco. The fountain, by French sculptor Francois Sicard, commemorates the association between Australia and France in World War 1.
Rather than depicting military scenes, Sicard chose classical mythology to express themes of peace, renewal, and sacrifice.
This monument located on Dixon Street in Haymarket, commemorates the sacrifice made by Australians of Chinese heritage who have served in various conflicts.
The Australian Chinese Ex-Services Monument features 380 light rods spiralling around a central column. Its circular design reflects the Chinese belief that death does not end reciprocal relationships. The light rods symbolise fallen soldiers and echo candles lit in remembrance.
An artwork by Tony Albert honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women.
The standing and fallen bullets represent those who survived and those who were lost. The work also reflects the injustice faced by returning Indigenous soldiers, who were denied the same recognition and land rights as their white comrades.
Across Sydney, war memorials quietly honour the courage, sacrifice and legacy of Australians who have served in the armed forces. Whether you're passing by or exploring the city, take a moment at one of these sites to pause and reflect on the lives they commemorate.
Discover more monuments and memorials across Sydney or take a self-guided tour on the Remembrance walk in the Sydney Culture Walks app.
