Ipswich in Spring 2023

PROJECTS HONOURING INDIGENOUS VETERANS TAKE SHAPE

An artist’s impression showing plinths to be added to Memorial Gardens, including one honouring Indigenous servicemen and servicewomen.

Two important projects to honour Indigenous servicemen and servicewomen are underway in the city’s heart as Ipswich City Council continues to deliver on actions in its Indigenous Accord 2020–2025. Council is progressing a Ceremonial, Healing and Remembrance Place in Queens Park and Indigenous Soldiers Memorial Plinth in Memorial Gardens (Ipswich RSL) in Nicholas Street. The projects were a direct result of the Indigenous Accord 2020–2025 which called for recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and servicewomen through the creation of a war memorial in Queens Park. The Accord is council’s strategic framework for reconciliation and community governance with Aboriginal

and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and their communities. Queens Park’s location was traditionally a place for Aboriginal people to meet and resolve interpersonal and inter- clan conflict so it’s only fitting there will now be a place created for healing and remembrance. Nine plinths will be placed in Memorial Gardens (Ipswich RSL) on Nicholas Street, with one to specifically acknowledge the contribution and sacrifice of Indigenous men and women who served in the Australian Armed Forces. To follow the progress of these projects, visit Shapeyouripswich.com.au

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