ANZAC MEMORIAL - ANZAC Bridge and Digger Statue

Description:

The ANZAC Bridge, formally known as the Glebe Island Bridge, was completed in 1996. With a span of 345 metres, it is the longest cable-stayed bridge in Australia.

In a ceremony on Remembrance Day 1998, it officially became known as the ANZAC Bridge and is a fitting memorial to members from both sides of the Tasman who formed the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps - the ANZACs.

Click for display of speech by the Premier of New South Wales, delivered at the ANZAC Bridge Dedication (PDF format)

Click for display of speech by Mr G E (Rusty) Priest, State President RSL of Australia (NSW Branch), delivered at the ANZAC Bridge Dedication (PDF format)

In recognition of the historic partnership, the Australian flag flies from the east pylon (city end) and New Zealand flag from the west pylon. A New Zealand born artist, Alan Somerville, sculptured the 4 metre high bronze World War One Digger (Australian soldier) featured at the west end of the bridge, dedicated on ANZAC Day 2000.

Inscription:

Plaque at the base of the statue of the Digger reads:
ANZAC Memorial

Was officially unveiled by the Honourable Bob Carr MP
Premier of New South Wales
Mr G. E. (Rusty) Priest AM
State President RSL of Australia (NSW Branch)
on ANZAC DAY 25 April 2000 in the presence of
Mr C E Mance
A WWI Veteran

Ms Priscilla Williams
Consul-General of New Zealand

The plaque includes the coat-of-arms for Australia, New Zealand, and the state of New South Wales, accompanied, at far right, by the RSL badge.

Established: 1998

Dedication: 11 November 1998

Photographed and recorded by:
Roads and Traffic Authority NSW

Year Recorded: 2002  

Additional Images with accompanying information: 2