The Story Behind the Memorial
The SievX Memorial occupies a quiet stretch of foreshore in Weston Park, overlooking Lake Burley Griffin. It commemorates the October 2001 sinking of the Indonesian fishing boat known as SIEV X, which claimed 146 children, 142 women and 65 men. Designed by artist Sue Anne Ware, the installation consists of 353 timber poles of varying heights set into the grass and gravel, each representing one life lost. The poles are inscribed with names where known and arranged to evoke both the scale of the tragedy and the fragility of the vessel.
Visiting the Site
Walk the gentle slope from the car park toward the water and the poles gradually come into view, their weathered surfaces catching the changing light over the lake. The layout encourages slow movement; visitors often pause at individual poles or stand back to take in the full ensemble against the backdrop of the Brindabella Ranges. Interpretive panels provide context without overwhelming the visual impact of the installation itself. Because the memorial sits within a working park, it remains accessible at all times, though early morning and late afternoon offer the most contemplative atmosphere.
Getting There
Weston Park lies on the western side of Lake Burley Griffin, roughly four kilometres from Canberra’s city centre. Cyclists can follow the lakeside path network; drivers will find limited roadside parking along Weston Park Road. Public buses from Civic or Woden stop within a ten-minute walk. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs or prams along the main paths, though some grass sections can soften after rain.
Combining the Visit
Many travellers pair the memorial with other lakeside attractions. A short walk or cycle east leads to the National Museum of Australia, while the opposite direction reaches the Yarralumla Yacht Club and its public café. The surrounding parkland offers picnic areas and playgrounds, making the memorial a natural stop on a family outing that also includes the nearby playground at Weston Park itself.
Best Time to Visit
Canberra’s autumn (March to May) and spring (September to November) bring mild temperatures and fewer insects, ideal for lingering among the poles. Summer visits are possible but plan for early morning to avoid heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Winter days are crisp and often clear, with low visitor numbers that heighten the sense of solitude.
