Restored WWII Memorial Bowl to be officially reopened
The restoration and enhancement of Albury’s historic World War II Memorial Bowl is now complete, with the community invited to attend its official reopening on Saturday 8 November.
(Pictured at the restored WWII Memorial Bowl: Member for Albury, Justin Clancy MP, Albury Mayor Kevin Mack & President of the Albury RSL Sub Branch, Graham Docksey OAM)
Located at the corner of Memorial Drive and Affleck Street, the Memorial Bowl, originally dedicated in 1954, occupies a prominent position overlooking the city, offering a place of reflection with sweeping views across Albury.
The almost $2 million upgrade has been made possible with support from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 5, which contributed $740,000 (ex GST), with the remaining funding provided by AlburyCity. The project has revitalised this significant public space to ensure it continues to serve as a place of remembrance and recreation for generations to come.
A free community event will be held from 9.30am, featuring a Welcome to Country by Darren Wighton, performances by the Wodonga Brass Band and Pipe Major Saxon Coffey, official addresses and the unveiling of new memorial plaques.
Albury Mayor Kevin Mack said the project balances the site’s historical significance with improved community use.
“The Memorial Bowl holds a special place in our city’s story. It’s a place to pause and reflect, to remember those who served, and to connect with our shared history,” Mayor Mack said.
"The restoration has been undertaken with care and respect, ensuring this space continues to honour the legacy of those who served while creating a welcoming environment for everyone."
Developed in consultation with the Albury RSL Sub Branch, Albury and District Historical Society, Charles Sturt University and local landscape architects Spiire, the project delivers key improvements identified in the WWII Memorial Bowl Master Plan, endorsed by Council in May 2021.
Enhancements include:
- Repairs to the heritage walling
- A new memorial garden and memorial plaques
- Upgraded play and exercise spaces
- Shade sails, seating and tree planting
- Pathways and accessibility improvements
Member for Albury, Justin Clancy MP, will join the proceedings on Saturday.
“I’m proud that the former NSW Liberal–Nationals Government backed AlburyCity with $740,000 through Round 5 of the Stronger Country Communities Fund to help deliver these respectful upgrades,” Mr Clancy said.
“This restoration honours the stories that have echoed here since the 1950s and ensures the Bowl remains accessible and welcoming for today’s families.”
President of the Albury RSL Sub Branch, Graham Docksey OAM, said the renewed site continues to pay tribute to those who served.
“The Memorial Bowl continues to honour the Albury men and women who served during the Second World War – many having paid the supreme sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today and tomorrow,” Mr Docksey said.
The reopening ceremony will also mark the unveiling of a plaque honouring the 2/23rd Australian Infantry Battalion - ‘Albury’s Own’. The Battalion was raised at the Albury Showgrounds in 1940 and served with distinction in the Middle East, New Guinea and on Tarakan before being disbanded in 1946.
The community is encouraged to attend the reopening and take the opportunity to experience the renewed Memorial Bowl firsthand. The event is free and open to all.