GUEST LECTURE | Remembering the ANZACs: War Memorials, Museums and the Stories We Preserve

Join Collections Officer Rebecca Jones from the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney, for a fascinating talk exploring how we commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australians in war, the enduring significance of war memorials, and the vital role museums play in preserving our military history.

With extensive experience working in organisations across NSW, including regional museums, Rebecca brings a deep understanding of the important role local museums play in preserving and sharing stories of national significance.

Drawing from the Anzac Memorial’s archives, she will delve into the fascinating history of the Sphinx Memorial in Sydney’s Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park before turning to Wagga Wagga’s own Victory Memorial Gardens, revealing the connections between these remarkable places of remembrance and the stories they continue to tell.

This talk will also examine the Museum of the Riverina’s nationally significant Kangaroo March Banner and how objects like it act as powerful conduits for commemoration and storytelling. Finally, she will explore how keeping the banner in the community where its story began strengthens its meaning and ensures this unique piece of Australia’s military heritage remains connected to the people and place that shaped it.

Join us afterwards for light refreshments and the opportunity to meet Rebecca and members of the Museum of the Riverina team.