Arch of Victory and Garden of the Grieving Mother
Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
The Arch of Victory was built to commemorate the Allied victory in World War I and to provide a sense of comfort and meaning to a community emerging from four years of grief and anxiety. The foundation stone was laid by General Sir William Birdwood on February 7th, 1920. Thirteen local tradesmen undertook the four-month construction and utilised 70,000 bricks donated by the Selkirk company. Standing 17.5 metres high and 19.7 metres wide, the Arch is crowned with the emblem of the AIF - the Rising Sun. Opened by HRH Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales, on June 2nd, 1920. His connection to Ballarat endured, and on the Arch's 50th anniversary, now as the Duke of Windsor, the Duke of Windsor responded to an invitation from the President of the Arch of Victory / Avenue of Honour Committee, Keith Price.
The Garden of the Grieving Mother provides a place for contemplation and reflection. Inspired by the experiences of those who remained at home during wartime, it honours the grief and anxiety and resilience of mothers, fathers, families and friends waiting for news of loved ones serving overseas. While rooted in the World War I experience the garden pays tribute to the mothers and families of all Australian servicemen and women. At its centre stands a life-sized bronze statue by acclaimed Australian artist Peter Corlett OAM.
