Discovering the HMAS Canberra Memorial
Standing on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin, the HMAS Canberra Memorial commemorates the heavy cruiser sunk during the Battle of Savo Island in 1942. The site offers a quiet place to reflect on the 84 Australian sailors lost and the wider contribution of the Royal Australian Navy in the Second World War.
The History of HMAS Canberra
Launched in 1927, HMAS Canberra served with distinction in the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean before joining Allied forces in the Pacific. On 9 August 1942 she was struck by multiple torpedoes and gunfire; the ship was scuttled later that day. The Canberra memorial preserves the ship’s bell, sections of her hull plate and a detailed plaque listing every crew member who served. The design incorporates naval anchors and a compass rose set into the paving, guiding visitors toward the water’s edge.
What to See and Do
Begin at the central stone plinth that carries the ship’s crest and battle honours. Walk the short interpretive trail that explains the cruiser’s wartime voyages through panels and photographs. The adjacent seating area overlooks the lake, where a small anchor sculpture marks the approximate position of the vessel’s final resting place. Photographers often capture the memorial at sunrise when light reflects off the water and the surrounding eucalyptus trees.
Getting There
The memorial sits within easy reach of central Canberra. Walk south along Anzac Parade from the Australian War Memorial, a pleasant 15-minute stroll. Several bus routes stop at the nearby Kings Avenue jetty, and dedicated bicycle paths run along the lake foreshore. Limited on-street parking is available for those arriving by car.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon provides the calmest atmosphere and softer light for photography. Spring (September–November) brings mild temperatures and flowering shrubs around the lake, while autumn offers crisp air and fewer crowds. The site remains accessible year-round, though winter winds can make the lakeside location feel cooler.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with the Australian War Memorial, just a short walk north, or continue along the lakeside path to the National Carillon and Reconciliation Place. The Parliamentary Triangle’s museums and galleries lie within a 20-minute stroll, making the memorial an ideal starting point for a day of remembrance and exploration.
