Shrine of Remembrance Exhibiton

The inaugural History of the Shrine Travelling Exhibition will be on display at Watsonia Library from 24 November to 18 December.

More than 80 years in the making, this unique exhibition highlights the journey of Victoria’s most recognizable memorial from its conception in 1921 to its present day role as the pre-eminent site for commemoration and education.

The exhibition aims to connect all Victorians to the Shrine and inform young and old of its history, significance and future direction. Through the use of graphics and with content drawn from over 80 years of archives, newspapers and personal collections of images, the exhibition explains the critical role that the Shrine has played in Victoria’s social history since its inception in the 1920s. Two audio visuals (including original footage from 1934 and 1954) complement this exhibition and bring to light the importance and impact of Victorians at war and in peacekeeping.

“Through this exhibition, the Shrine Trustees are delighted to be able to bring the Shrine – and its Victorian story - to Yarra Plenty Regional Library. It is our aim to encourage current and future generations to appreciate the role of the Shrine in honouring the service and sacrifice of Victorian servicemen and women. This travelling exhibition allows us this opportunity. We hope it will engage the Yarra Plenty Region community, especially those who may not otherwise be able to visit the Shrine,” said John Taylor, Chairman of Shrine Trustees.

The exhibition chronicles some of the State’s most enduring and changing times: the overwhelming grief for the loss of 19,000 Victorians in World War I; the outstanding fund raising contribution of Victorian school children toward the building’s construction; the rich ceremonial tradition that led to the creation of the Second World War Forecourt in 1954 and the opening of the Remembrance Garden (Post 1945 Memorial) in 1985. Some varied expressions of past and present community attitudes towards events such as ANZAC Day and the Vietnam War are also explored. Other key components include the opening of the Shrine Visitor Centre in 2003 as well as plans and sketches for future underground galleries.

The History of the Shrine Travelling Exhibition will be launched by Shrine Chief Executive Mr Denis Baguley on Friday 27 November at 10.30 am. The exhibition will also be hosted at Diamond Valley and Mill Park Libraries throughout Summer till 22nd February.

It is proudly sponsored by the John T. Reid Charitable Trusts.