HOBART FLAME OF REMEMBRANCE
The installation of an eternal flame at Hobarts War Memorial is highly significant for Tasmania.
A flame is widely accepted as a symbol of eternal life. An eternal flame at a war memorial symbolises a nation’s perpetual gratitude towards, and remembrance of, its war dead (Australian War Memorial, www.awm.gov.au). The Hobart War Memorial Flame of Remembrance Project aims to design and install an eternal flame for Hobart’s War Memorial on the Queens Domain. It was opened in April 2015 to mark the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landings at Gallipoli.
LOCATION
The flame has been positioned to link the Victoria Cross Memorials while also strengthening the axial position of the Cenotaph and Anzac Parade. Generous circulation space is retained to each side for vehicular movement and for large gatherings around the Cenotaph and the flame.
REFLECTION POOL
The reflection pool heightens the sense of eternity through its mirroring of the sky. It provides a still, serene setting for contemplation of the flame and its symbolism. The water is designed to flow into a deep central well from which the flame emerges. The contrast of the flame and the flowing water provides an intriguing juxtaposition.
MATERIALS
The reflection pool edge wall is made from precast concrete which is integrally coloured with a black pigment. The surface is to be honed to reveal the bluestone aggregate and create a reflective finish. The pool is to be lined with black stainless steel to magnify the reflectivity.
Employer
Hobart City Council
Role
Project Management including:
Subconsultant co-ordination
Concept and detailed design
Budget management
Approvals and compliance
Programming
Concept presentations to stakeholders
Team
Structural Engineering Gandy & Roberts
Lighting and Electrical Design ASC Engineers
Gas Design Waldheim
Hydraulic Design Howrah Plumbing
Partnership
The Hobart War Memorial Flame of Remembrance Project is a partnership between the Returned Services League (Tasmania), Hobart City Council, Department of Premier and Cabinet and Tasgas.