MEMORIAL TO H.M.A.S. SYDNEY II - Symbolism

• This Memorial comprises many symbolic elements expressing the tragic loss of HMAS Sydney II. The precinct is based on a circular plan, symbolising totality, wholeness, infinity, eternity. It is approached by a path, curving upwards, forming a ceremonial entrance ramp to the dedicated area.

1. The Wall of Remembrance

• Encompassing the south-west side is a semi-circular wall, faced with W.A. Black Granite, engraved with the names of the 645 men lost. This represents the 'encircling Arms of the Nation' welcoming home it's lost loved ones. The exterior face of the wall is sculpted with a low relief motif emblematic of the eternal sea. At the Entrance Portal, historic photographic images of HMAS Sydney II, bring to life the reality of the tragedy

2. The Dome of Souls

• This is the centerpiece and inspirational heart of the entire complex. It consists of seven pillars, testifying to the National significance and intention of this Memorial, while expressing the traditional symbol of the pillar as world axis, ' joining heaven and earth. The pillar denotes wisdom, power, goodness, strength, the tree of life and, surmounted by a crown, spiritual ascent.
  
• This forms a Dome composed of 645 Stainless Steel Gulls, representing those lost. The concept was inspired by the incident which took place, when a flock of silver Gulls swooped over the assembled crowd, during the Memorial Site Dedication Ceremony, 19th November 1998, while the Last Post rang out in the evening air, at sunset, the last recorded moment in time when HMAS Sydney was seen. Traditionally, the seagull personified the souls of lost sailors and in this context these elemental symbols form a link with the men of HMAS Sydney II, as spirits flying free between water and sky. The canopy thus formed, becomes an open filigree stainless steel structure, redolent of the sound of sea and wind creating a sense of disembodiment and peace, as a graceful distillation of the overall concept.

3. The Podium

• The circular Sanctuary Floor is constructed from W.A. Granite and incorporates representative graphic images, based upon the Ship's prow and the Silver Cull motif. Central to this is a ship's propeller, serving as a ceremonial wreath-laying Altar. Above hangs an Eternal Flame, manifestation of the soul and eternal life, lit from the War Memorial in King's Park, Perth.

4. The Stele

• Based on the historical symbolism of Standing Stones as grave makers, this vertical element in stainless steel, linking with the steel birds of the Dome, represents the prow of HMAS Sydney II, metaphorically in a single dramatic gesture, while providing a major focal point visible from many miles around.

5. The Bronze Waiting Woman Sculpture

• At the edge of the precinct stands a sculpture of a woman. Appearing almost real, she leans anxiously into the wind. Frozen in time and bronze, her strained gaze fixed patiently forever on the far horizon, she is the all encompassing 'Waiting Woman' grieving for her men folk Through her, the pain of loss is felt, the everlasting empty waiting of those, many of whom will come to this place of healing, to close this tragic chapter in Australian history. Hopefully these will find comfort in the existence of this sacred site; this place of contemplation which honours and remembers the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for freedom.

Joan Walsh-Smith & Charles Smith

Smith sculptors 2001