Inauguration of the Australian Memorial Park (4 July 1998)


The inauguration took place on saturday 4 juillet 1998 at about 12 am, 80 years after the battle of Hamel. Before, in the morning, there was a ceremony at the Australian Memorial of Villers-Bretonneux - Fouilloy. During these ceremony four Australian veterans received the Legion of Honour.
1. The official arrival
Hundreds of people are already waiting. Arrival of the officials representing Australia and France but also allied nations.
The officials are following the path of the memorial park to finally arrive in the monument ceremonial space (list of officials and authorities).
The officials procession lead by general O'Brien, initiator of the project (center). Left to right : Bruce Scott, Australian Minister for Veteran's Affairs, Jean-Pierre Masseret, Secretary of State for Veteran's Affairs and Ian MacLachlan, Australian Minister for Defence.
2. Inauguration of the monument
The Monument covered with a cloth before its inauguration. Around, spectators and journalists without a seat. After some speeches, the monument is unveiled.
Extract of the official program
The monument is dedicated then consecrated, an hymn song by an Australian soprano, reading if a poem by a veteran of the battle, last post, minute silence then laying of wreaths. Australien national anthem and French national anthem.
3. In the village ...
After a lapse of contemplation at the village Monument aux Morts, spectators and officials are going to the village square for a buffet. These photography shows the number of participants.
Except the lunch, a French army band and an australian pipe band performed some piece of music. Officials are making some and exchanging gifts (here, general O'Brien et Mr Roussel, mayor of the village). These warm and sunny afternoon was the opportunity for many Australians and French to meet eachother. A terrific atmosphere.
Four Australian veterans of the Great War attended the franco-australian ceremonies of July 1998. They had never been back to France since 80 years.

Building of the Memorial Park and of the Monument The Australian Corps Memorial Park