Zak Kirkup and the Liberals will commit $550,000 to the expansion of the HMAS Sydney II Memorial in Geraldton with the construction of ‘The Bridge – Contemplation Area and Viewing Platform’.
Liberal leader Zak Kirkup, who joined Liberal candidate for Geraldton Rob Dines to make the announcement in Geraldton today, said the project proposed by the Rotary Club of Geraldton would make a tremendous addition to the world-class memorial.
“The HMAS Sydney II Memorial is a significant site commemorating the greatest single tragedy in Australian naval history and the addition of the Contemplation Area and Viewing Platform will enrich the experience for the local, national and international visitors it attracts,” Mr Kirkup said.
Mr Dines said the design would feature enclosed seating for visitors, a viewing platform, and dedicated space for the Geraldton Voluntary Tour Guides Association.
“There is currently no sheltered area for visitors or guides to meet and contemplate the significance of the memorial, which is exposed to the elements on Mount Scott, the highest point in Geraldton,” he said.
“The planned addition will allow more visitors to enjoy the full experience of the memorial and provide a sheltered area for the guides, who lead tours at the site 364 days of the year.
“The Rotary Club of Geraldton is to be congratulated for its efforts in driving the planning and construction of the HMAS Sydney II Memorial, which has become internationally recognised as one of the best in the world.
“It is very exciting to announce a future addition to this important site.”
HMAS Sydney II, a light cruiser of the Royal Australian Navy, was lost following a battle with the German raider HSK Kormoran off the coast of Geraldton in 1941 with 645 crew aboard. It remains Australia’s worst naval disaster.