U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Australian Foreign Minister Robert Carr, U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, and Australian Defense Minister Stephen Smith at wreath-laying ceremony at State War Memorial Perth 2012

State War Memorial Cenotaph And Concourse

State War Memorial Cenotaph and Concourse Perth: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The State War Memorial Cenotaph and Concourse in Perth, Western Australia, is a revered landmark dedicated to the courage and sacrifice of Western Australian servicemen and women across multiple conflicts. Situated atop Mount Eliza within Kings Park, the memorial commands sweeping views of Perth’s skyline, the Swan and Canning Rivers, and the Darling Ranges, seamlessly integrating the memory of the fallen within the living landscape. Since its unveiling in 1929, the memorial has been a focal point for remembrance, reflection, and community gatherings, embodying both historical significance and cultural resonance (sjmc.gov.au; en.wikipedia.org).

This comprehensive guide explores the memorial’s origins, architectural features, cultural importance, visiting information, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Historical Context and Significance

Origins and Purpose

The State War Memorial Cenotaph was established as a principal site of remembrance for Western Australians who served and died in military conflicts, beginning with World War I. Like many Australian war memorials, it was conceived as both a monument to the fallen and a surrogate grave for those whose bodies were never returned home, providing a communal space for mourning and reflection (sjmc.gov.au).

Community and Heritage

Public subscription and government support drove the memorial’s creation, reflecting the collective grief and respect of Western Australians. Its enduring significance is reinforced by its role in major commemorative events and its listing on the Western Australian Heritage Register (State Library Blog).

Location and Setting

The memorial is strategically located atop Mount Eliza in Kings Park, Perth’s premier green space. This site offers panoramic views of the city, rivers, and distant ranges, symbolizing unity and remembrance. Kings Park, known to the Whadjuk Noongar people as Mooro Katta and Kaarta Gar-up, is a place of deep cultural significance, further enriching the memorial’s meaning (birtwistlewiki.com.au; en.wikipedia.org).

Architectural and Symbolic Features

The Cenotaph

The memorial’s focal point is the 18-meter granite obelisk, inspired by ancient Egyptian monuments and the Australian Imperial Force memorials in France and Belgium. Designed by General J. Talbot Hobbs, the obelisk’s restrained, dignified form is inscribed with the phrase “LET SILENT CONTEMPLATION BE YOUR OFFERING.” Bronze plaques and marble tablets bear the names of over 7,000 Western Australians who died in World War I, as well as those lost in World War II and subsequent conflicts. These inscriptions provide a tangible record of sacrifice and a point of connection for families and visitors (birtwistlewiki.com.au; BGPA).

The Concourse and Court of Contemplation

A broad Concourse surrounds the Cenotaph, accommodating large gatherings during commemorative events. To the west lies the Court of Contemplation, unveiled in 1955, offering a tranquil space for reflection and featuring inscriptions of major battlefields and service honors (en.wikipedia.org).

Flame of Remembrance and Pool of Reflection

The Flame of Remembrance, inaugurated in 2000, burns continuously within the Pool of Reflection—a water feature that mirrors the sky and the obelisk, reinforcing the themes of memory and continuity (sjmc.gov.au).

Honour Avenues and Whispering Wall

Three Honour Avenues—May Drive, Lovekin Drive, and Marri Walk—are lined with nearly 1,800 plaques, each dedicated to a Western Australian who died in conflict. The Whispering Wall encircles the Pool of Reflection, creating a unique acoustic phenomenon that delights visitors (Perth Travelers).

Additional Features

The precinct includes commemorative plaques, flagpoles, and statues marking specific units and campaigns. Tree-lined avenues and formal landscaping create a layered and contemplative environment (en.wikipedia.org).

Cultural Significance and Community Role

Commemorative Events

The State War Memorial is the centerpiece for Western Australia’s major commemorative events. The ANZAC Day Dawn Service on April 25th attracts over 40,000 attendees, while Remembrance Day ceremonies on November 11th provide further opportunities for collective remembrance. The memorial’s inscriptions include lines from Laurence Binyon’s “For the Fallen” and Rudyard Kipling’s “Lest We Forget,” anchoring the site in Australia’s literary and commemorative traditions (sjmc.gov.au; en.wikipedia.org).

Indigenous Perspectives

The site occupies land significant to the Whadjuk Noongar people, traditional custodians of Perth. Interpretive materials acknowledge this heritage, offering visitors a nuanced understanding of its dual significance (perthisok.com).

Education and Interpretation

Guided tours and interactive displays, including the Discovery Zone and First World War galleries, provide educational experiences for visitors of all ages. School groups frequently visit, ensuring the memorial’s significance is passed to future generations.

Visiting the State War Memorial: Hours, Tickets, and Practical Information

Visiting Hours

General Access: The State War Memorial precinct and Kings Park are open daily, year-round. The memorial is accessible 24 hours a day, though daylight hours (6:00 am – 8:00 pm) are recommended for safety and the best viewing experience (BGPA).
Special Events: During major commemorations, such as the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, event-specific guidelines may apply.

Admission and Tickets

Entry: Free of charge; no tickets required for general visitation (BGPA).

Location and Transport

Address: Kings Park, Mount Eliza, Perth, WA.
Getting There: Easily accessible by car, public transport (including bus route 935 and the free Blue Cat bus), walking, or cycling. Parking is available within Kings Park but may be limited during major events (perthisok.com).

Accessibility

Fully accessible with paved paths, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Assistance animals are permitted.
Wheelchair access to all major features is provided (BGPA).

Guided Tours and Facilities

Guided Tours: Available through the Kings Park Visitor Centre and various tour operators. Self-guided tours can be accessed via mobile apps such as Audiala and GPSmyCity (GPSmyCity).
Facilities: Visitor Centre, gift shop, cafés, restrooms, and accessible amenities (BGPA; Tale of 2 Backpackers).

Visiting Etiquette and Tips

Respect: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, especially during ceremonies.
Photography: Permitted for personal use; professional or commercial filming requires approval (CIO Women Magazine).
Safety: Supervise children near water features; be cautious during evening or night visits.
Weather: Dress appropriately for Perth’s climate and bring a jacket in cooler months (Perth Weekend).

Unique Experiences and Recommendations

Whispering Wall: Experience the unique acoustic phenomenon.
Honour Avenues: Walk the tree-lined avenues to reflect on individual stories of service.
ANZAC Day Dawn Service: Attend for a moving communal ceremony (arrive early due to large crowds).
Nearby Attractions: Extend your visit to the Western Australian Botanic Garden, Pioneer Women’s Memorial, 10th Light Horse Memorial, Perth Mint, Fremantle Prison, and the Western Australian Museum (perthisok.com; transportnetworkaustralia.com.au).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the State War Memorial Cenotaph visiting hours?
A: The memorial is accessible 24/7, with daylight hours (6:00 am – 8:00 pm) recommended for safety and viewing.

Q: Is there an entry fee or tickets required?
A: No, entry is free and no tickets are required.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours can be booked through the Kings Park Visitor Centre or local operators; self-guided tours are available via mobile apps.

Q: Is the memorial wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the precinct offers paved paths, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

Q: Can I take photographs at the memorial?
A: Personal photography is allowed; for commercial purposes, prior approval is needed.

Q: What are the best times to visit?
A: Early mornings, late afternoons, and during commemorative events such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day.

Plan Your Visit

To maximize your experience:

Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours and real-time event updates.
Check the official Kings Park website for the latest visitor information.
Follow Kings Park’s social media channels for event announcements and visitor tips.
Combine your visit with other local historical sites for a comprehensive exploration of Perth’s heritage.

Visuals and Media

High-resolution images and interactive maps are available on the Kings Park website and tourism platforms.
Use descriptive alt tags for images: “State War Memorial Cenotaph Perth,” “Kings Park memorial views,” “ANZAC Day service at State War Memorial.”
For a virtual preview, explore online interactive maps and photo galleries.

Summary and Recommendations

The State War Memorial Cenotaph and Concourse is an iconic and accessible destination that honors Western Australia’s military heritage. Its strategic location, thoughtful design, and symbolic features—including the granite obelisk, Court of Contemplation, Flame of Remembrance, and Pool of Reflection—create a powerful and contemplative space for visitors. With free year-round access, comprehensive facilities, and a diverse program of guided tours and events, the memorial remains a living testament to valor, sacrifice, and community spirit. For the most meaningful experience, time your visit during commemorative events, explore the Honour Avenues, and take advantage of mobile tour apps for deeper insights (sjmc.gov.au; BGPA; perthisok.com; transportnetworkaustralia.com.au).