In February 2009, the Victorian and Australian Governments jointly established the $10 million Community Recovery Fund to assist in community development and recovery after the Victorian bushfires. Funding of $2.5 million was allocated for memorials and commemorative events and has supported the creation of 59 memorials across 18 councils through extensive consultation with those communities impacted by the fires. The memorials include walls, sculptures, places of reflection, storyboards, lookout towers, roadside stops, shelters, signage, murals, plaques and seating, commemorative gardens and rotundas. The aim of the collection is to provide a complete and historic photographic record of the memorials created after the 2009 Victorian bushfires.
Photography by Ms Silvi Glattauer (with the exception of the art installation at the Remlaw Fire Memorial).
Scroll down this page to view the memorial images or select a link from this list of memorials:
Alpine Shire, Dederang Gap Memorial
Alpine Shire, Happy Valley and Havilah Memorial Shelter - Happy Valley Hall
Alpine Shire, Kancoona Picnic Ground Memorial
Alpine Shire, Mudgegonga Memorial - Mudgegonga Community Hall
Alpine Shire, Rosewhite Gap Memorial
Alpine Shire, Wilson Family Memorial Plaque and Tree
Baw Baw Shire, Drouin West Memorial Rotunda - Robin Hood Reserve
Baw Baw Shire, Jindivick Memorial – Kydd Park Reserve
Baw Baw Shire, Jindivick Memorial - Nangarra Reserve
Baw Baw Shire, Labertouche Memorial - Labertouche Public Hall Reserve
Bendigo Memorial - Albert Richardson Reserve
Cardinia Shire, Bunyip Memorial - Koolangara Park
Cardinia Shire, Tonimbuk Memorial - Tonimbuk Hall
Corangamite Shire, Pomborneit Memorial
Hepburn Shire, Memorial Fountain Tree – Daylesford Community Reserve
Horsham, Remlaw Fire Memorial
Indigo Shire, Bruarong Memorial - Bruarong Community Hall
Indigo Shire, Stanley Memorial Reflective Space
Latrobe City, Boolarra Community Memorial – Entrance to Grand Ridge Trail
Latrobe City, Callignee Community Memorial - Callignee Community Hall
Latrobe City, Hazelwood and Jeeralang Community Memorial – Jeeralang North Hall
Latrobe City, Koornalla Community Memorial - Koornalla Monument Reserve
Latrobe City, Phoenix Rising Sculpture - Traralgon South Fire Station
Latrobe City, Traralgon South Community Memorial - Victory Park
Macedon Ranges Shire, Mosaic mural – Kyneton Town Hall
Mitchell Shire, Central Memorial - Broadford Park
Mitchell Shire, Clonbinane Memorial - Clonbinane Hall
Mitchell Shire, Kilmore East Memorial - Kilmore East Recreation Reserve
Mitchell Shire, Reedy Creek Hall Memorial
Mitchell Shire, Sunday Creek Memorial
Mitchell Shire, Upper Plenty Memorial
Mitchell Shire, Upper Reedy Creek Memorial
Mitchell Shire, Wandong-Heathcote Junction Memorial - Wandong Memorial Park
Murrindindi Shire, Flowerdale Memorial
Murrindindi Shire, Kinglake Memorial
Murrindindi Shire, Kinglake West Memorial
Murrindindi Shire, Marysville Memorial
Murrindindi Shire, Narbethong Memorial
Murrindindi Shire, Toolangi Castella Memorial
Nillumbik Shire, Bald Spur Road Memorial
Nillumbik Shire, The Blacksmiths Tree - Strathewen
Nillumbik Shire, Christmas Hills Memorial
Nillumbik Shire, St Andrews Memorial - St Andrews Community Centre
Nillumbik Shire, Strathewen Community Memorial
South Gippsland Shire, Compassion in Adversity (Sam the Koala) – Baromi Park
Southern Grampians Shire, Coleraine Town Entrance Sign
Southern Grampians Shire, East Park Roadside Stop Memorial
Southern Grampians Shire, Points Arboretum Peter Francis Memorial Lookout
Wellington Shire, Balook Memorial - Mount Tassie
Wellington Shire, Gormandale Memorial - Gormandale Recreation Reserve
Wellington Shire, Yarram Memorial - Yarram Community Ampitheatre
Whittlesea, Humevale Road Memorial
Whittlesea Memorial - Toorourong Reservoir Park
Yarra Ranges, Chum Creek Memorial
Yarra Ranges, Dixons Creek Memorial - Dixons Creek Recreation Reserve
Yarra Ranges, Healesville Memorial – Queens Park
Yarra Ranges, Kinglake Memorial - Kinglake National Park (Giraween Walk)
Yarra Ranges, Steels Creek Memorials - Steels Creek Community Centre and Steels Creek Walking Track
Yarra Ranges, Yarra Glen Memorial – McKenzie Reserve
Alpine Shire, Dederang Gap Memorial
Location Address | Kiewa Valley Highway, Dederang |
Type of Memorial | Roadside stop and shelter. |
Description of Memorial | A wayside stop consisting of a shelter, seating and a storyboard. |
Wording on Plaque | N/A |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was delivered by Alpine Shire Council in consultation with the community. |








Alpine Shire, Happy Valley and Havilah Memorial Shelter - Happy Valley Hall
Location Address | Havilah Road (near the corner of Happy Valley Road), Rosewhite |
Type of Memorial | Playground and BBQ shelter. |
Description of Memorial | Covered BBQ area with an electric BBQ, a playground and a plaque. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday Memorial Shelter On Saturday, 7th February, 2009, a severe bushfire ravaged sections of Happy Valley and Havilah. This BBQ shelter was erected from funds donated following the fire. |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was delivered by Alpine Shire Council in consultation with the community. |


Alpine Shire, Kancoona Picnic Ground Memorial
Location Address | Running Creek Road, Kancoona |
Type of Memorial | Roadside stop and shelter. |
Description of Memorial | A wayside stop consisting of a shelter, seating and a storyboard. |
Wording on Plaque | N/A |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was delivered by Alpine Shire Council in consultation with the community. |








Alpine Shire, Mudgegonga Memorial - Mudgegonga Community Hall
Location Address | 1395 Myrtleford-Yackandandah Road, Mudgegonga |
Type of Memorial | Reflection space. |
Description of Memorial | Reflection space, paved and shade area behind the hall looking out over Barwidgee Creek. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Memorial design by Challis Design and construction by Myrtleford Paving, with input from the community. |




Alpine Shire, Rosewhite Gap Memorial
Location Address | Corner Happy Valley Road, Running Creek Road and Kancoona Gap Track |
Type of Memorial | Roadside stop and shelter. |
Description of Memorial | Two wayside stops consisting of a shelter, seating and a storyboards. |
Wording on Plaque | N/A |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was delivered by Alpine Shire Council in consultation with the community. |






Alpine Shire, Wilson Family Memorial Plaque and Tree
Location Address | Clyde Street, Myrtleford |
Type of Memorial | Memorial plaque and tree. |
Description of Memorial | Memorial rock plaque and tree in memory of Sue and John Wilson. |
Wording on Plaque | February 7, 2009 |
Who was involved in construction/design | Memorial design by Interpretive by Design and construction and installation by Don Downey Building Services, with input from the community. |




Baw Baw Shire, Drouin West Memorial Rotunda - Robin Hood Reserve
Location Address | Fishers Road, Drouin West |
Type of Memorial | Rotunda. |
Description of Memorial | Rotunda with bench seats and memorial stone with plaque. |
Wording on Plaque | Bunyip Ridge Fire |
Who was involved in construction/design | The Community Recovery Committee developed the concept drawings in consultation with the wider community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 10 September 2010 |


















Baw Baw Shire, Jindivick Memorial – Kydd Park Reserve
Location Address | 1120 Jacksons Track, Jindivick |
Type of Memorial | Sculpture with seating. |
Description of Memorial | Circular area with wooden seating and three post wooden sculpture with memorial plaque. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday |
Who was involved in construction/design | The Community Recovery Committee developed the concept drawings in consultation with the wider community. |




Baw Baw Shire, Jindivick Memorial - Nangara Reserve
Location Address | 95 Nangara Road, Jindivick |
Type of Memorial | Sculpture, bollards and mosaic. |
Description of Memorial | Comprises brightly painted bollards, a mosaic artwork on a rock, wooden seating and a three post wooden sculpture with memorial plaque. The memorial provides a ‘pause place’ for quiet reflection beside a walking track within the Nangara Reserve. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday |
Who was involved in construction/design | Local artists, school children and the Aboriginal community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | March 2011 |
















Baw Baw Shire, Labertouche Memorial - Labertouche Public Hall Reserve
Location Address | Labertouche Road, Labertouche |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating wall and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Set within a circular memorial space and composed of a stone seating wall with a timber bench and a memorial plaque integrated into the seating wall. |
Wording on Plaque | Bunyip Ridge Fire |
Who was involved in construction/design | The Community Recovery Committee developed the concept drawings in consultation with the wider community. |




Bendigo Memorial - Albert Richardson Reserve
Location Address | Marong Road, Ironbark |
Type of Memorial | Granite memorial wall with plaques and a tree sculpture. |
Description of Memorial | The memorial features a sculptural wall in three segments along a metaphorical timeline with February 7, 2009 in the centre. The time before the fire is represented by a metal wall, which then starts to buckle and melt into the ground representing the destructive force of the fires on Black Saturday. A break in the wall at this location refers to the interruption of life to the community caused by the fire. The wall beyond the February 7 location refers to the growth and recovery of the community and the environment since the fire. The post February 7 wall includes a sealed window featuring items that were salvaged from the fire; photographs, art tiles and text that recognises the response and recovery agencies, the survivors and the affected community. There is also a stand-alone fire tree sculpture constructed from steel, which stands 5 metres tall. |
Wording on Plaque | Left Side Inscription In Bendigo, the Bracewell Street fire, as it came to be known, swept quickly and with little warning through the north-west of the city. Powered by wind gusts of up to 80 kilometres per hour and temperatures into the mid-40s Celsius, the fire took the life of one resident, along with numerous pets and wildlife. It destroyed 58 homes, countless sheds and outbuildings, cars, boats and caravans. Right Side Inscription Inscription in Proximity The memorial was created with contributions from: |
Who was involved in construction/design | Dr. Anton Hasell - Sculptor, Fire Tree |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | April 2011 |










Cardinia Shire, Bunyip Memorial - Koolangara Park
Location Address | 4 Railway Avenue, Bunyip |
Type of Memorial | Plaque, seating and landscaping. |
Description of Memorial | The memorial features two plaques, memorial wall and seating and a tree in a large circular area. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque 1: CARDINIA SHIRE COUNCIL BUNYIP BUSHFIRE MEMORIAL Plaque 2: BUNYIP BUSHFIRE MEMORIAL – KOOLANGARRA PARK Bunyip Ridge Fire
|
Who was involved in construction/design | Landscaping and construction by Citywide Contractors, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | February 2014 |




Cardinia Shire, Tonimbuk Memorial - Tonimbuk Hall
Location Address | Tonimbuk Road, Tonimbuk |
Type of Memorial | Rock plaque. |
Description of Memorial | The memorial features a rock with a plaque integrated situated next to a sheltered barbeque area with a fire pit and seating. |
Wording on Plaque | CARDINIA SHIRE COUNCIL Neighbours helping neighbours strengthens our community |






Corangamite Shire, Pomborneit Memorial
Location Address | Pomborneit Recreation Reserve, Princes Highway, Pomborneit |
Type of Memorial | Playground, BBQ shelter and picnic facilities. |
Description of Memorial | Playground, BBQ shelter and picnic facilities. |
Wording on Plaque | The Pomberneit Recreation Reserve Improvement Project has been developed in memory of all those that suffered as a result of the Black Saturday bushfires that occurred on February 7, 2009. |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was delivered by Corangamite Shire Council in consultation with the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | June 2013 |




Hepburn Shire, Memorial Fountain Tree – Daylesford Community Reserve
Location Address | Corner of Stanbridge and Duke Streets, Daylesford |
Type of Memorial | Memorial tree. |
Description of Memorial | Four metre tall metal sculpture of a ghost gum, which includes two drinking fountains. The installation has brass gum leaves, harmonic bells and contributions of text and poetry from local writers, which have been laser cut into the metal. |
Wording on Plaque | Raging fire, The sun’s eye The heavy pall The brutal beauty Hot embers smoulder, |
Who was involved in construction/design | Dr. Anton Hasell - Sculptor |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 5 December 2012 |










Horsham, Remlaw Fire Memorial
Location Address | Corner of Eastgate Drive and Wotonga Drive, Horsham |
Type of Memorial | Commemorative garden with art installation and storyboard. |
Description of Memorial | Located on the bank of the Wimmera River in a culturally significant Aboriginal area, the memorial is comprised of a metal sculpture, based on the natural elements of fire, water, flora and fauna, with a steel shelter to protect the artwork from direct sunlight. The sculpture is fitted to the poles of the shelter. The sculpture is fabricated on a sheet of 6mm stainless steel, 1700mm X 1200mm. There is also an information board providing a written description of the events of Black Saturday including a detailed map. A native garden, seats and pathways linking the river with the southern part of Horsham. The sculpture forms the image of a bird, the actual shape of the Remlaw Fire, as realised by a satellite photograph taken at 7 February 2009. Gum leaves on the sculpture symbolise regrowth while the flower motifs and the emu footprints are in reference to the natural landscape in the Wimmera. |
Wording on Plaque | Dónal MOLLOY DRUM This memorial responds to the 2009 Remlaw Fire. It is an expression of our communities` appreciation for the strength of the people who have worked together to save lives and protect property, including sites of cultural significance. This sculpture’s concept is based on the natural elements of fire, water, flora and fauna. The image of the bird is the actual shape formed by the Remlaw Fire (2218 hectares of land was burnt). |
Who was involved in construction/design | Kelvin Robinson - Design and construction of shelter. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 18 June 2011 |














Indigo Shire, Bruarong Memorial - Bruarong Community Hall
Location Address | Bruarong Lane, Bruarong |
Type of Memorial | Memorial wall and plaque. |
Description of Memorial | A brick wall with a wagon wheel, rusted saw and a plaque. |
Wording on Plaque | In Memory of the Feb. 2009 Bushfires |
Who was involved in construction/design | Installation and site preparation by Ross Bebbington. |






Indigo Shire, Stanley Memorial Reflective Space
Location Address | Myrtleford-Stanley Road, next to the Stanley Barge Dam, Stanley |
Type of Memorial | Sculpture, circular pathway and seating. |
Description of Memorial | Featuring a tower plinth of sheet steel, the sculpture is topped with a curled leaf made of stainless steel, which rotates gently according to the wind direction, representing the ember danger from the fires. The sculpture incorporates the four elements of earth, fire, wind and water - we need these elements to maintain life, but all four can become dangerous. The location of the sculpture is also symbolic, next to the quick fill dam which is one of the community's strategies to combat future fire events. |
Wording on Plaque | Firefighters Tribute |
Who was involved in construction/design | Ben Gilbert |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | August 2012 |












Latrobe City, Traralgon South Community Memorial - Victory Park
Location Address | Princes Highway, Traralgon |
Type of Memorial | Reflection space. |
Description of Memorial | Reflection space with stone retaining wall, bench seat and plantings and plaque. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday Bushfires This place acknowledges the event, its effects, those who were lost and honours those who fought the fires and supported people and communities. Rest, remember and reflect on those affected by this and other disasters. Funded by the governments of Victoria and Australia through the Community Recovery Fund in partnership with Latrobe City Council. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Designs were developed by GHD, with input from the community. Construction by Filmer Group. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 7 February 2015 |
















Latrobe City, Phoenix Rising Sculpture - Traralgon South Fire Station
Location Address | 1 Keith Morgan Drive, Traralgon South |
Type of Memorial | Sculpture and plaque. |
Description of Memorial | A stainless steel sculpture of a mythical phoenix, built onto a stone pedestal, with a plaque. In the words of the artist, Benn Frederiksen: ‘The stone base represents our solid foundation. The phoenix speaks for itself - rising from ashes. Constructed from stainless steel - our strength. The circle is the circle of life, death and birth. The placement and orientation is towards the fire's origin and also the setting sun at that time of year when the firestorm came.’ |
Wording on Plaque | PHOENIX RISING |
Who was involved in construction/design | Benn Frederiksen |
















Latrobe City, Hazelwood and Jeeralang Community Memorial – Jeeralang North Hall
Location Address | Jeeralang North Road, Jeeralang |
Type of Memorial | Memorial garden. |
Description of Memorial | The garden comprises standard roses and a central weeping peach tree, cast iron plaque and seating. |
Wording on Plaque | MEMORIAL GARDEN |










Latrobe City, Boolarra Community Memorial – Entrance to Grand Ridge Trail
Location Address | Railway Park, Duke Street, Boolarra |
Type of Memorial | Memorial gazebo. |
Description of Memorial | A gazebo with seating, tables, landscaping, a memorial plaque and an electric barbecue. The gazebo is located at the entrance to the reconstructed Grand Ridge Rail Trail which had been destroyed in the 2009 fires. |
Wording on Plaque | The Boolarra Bushfire Memorial Gazebo |
Who was involved in construction/design | Local draftsperson, Chris Langridge drew the plans and designed the Gazebo. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | February 2014 |








Latrobe City, Callignee Community Memorial - Callignee Community Hall
Location Address | 435 Old Callignee Road, Callignee |
Type of Memorial | Memorial wall. |
Description of Memorial | A wall commemorates the people who were killed in the Black Saturday bushfires, including 11 from the Callignee and Traralgon South areas. It consists of a rendered wall in which community members created their own individual clay tiles that were included in the wall. |
Wording on Plaque | This memorial was created by the people of Callignee in memory of those who lost their lives on Black Saturday 7th February 2009. |
Who was involved in construction/design | The memorial wall was inspired by artist John Mutsaers. The construction of the wall involved John Mutsaers, ceramist Sue Acheson and the wider community. Traralgon South Primary School students were involved in making the tiles. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 5 February 2012 |










Latrobe City, Koornalla Community Memorial - Koornalla Monument Reserve
Location Address | 1590 Traralgon Creek Road, Koornalla |
Type of Memorial | Plaque and plantings. |
Description of Memorial | Cast iron plaque with planters along the rock wall. |
Wording on Plaque | The Koornalla monument site has been redeveloped following the devastating bushfire which raged through this valley on Black Saturday, 7th February 2009 |






Macedon Ranges, Mosaic mural - Kyneton Town Hall
Location Address | 129 Mollison Street, Kyneton |
Type of Memorial | Mosaic mural. |
Description of Memorial | A large mosaic mural, located on the side of the Kyneton Town Hall. |
Wording on Plaque | Imagine a day that changed us forever – 7th February 2009 A catastrophic fire destroyed fourteen homes, a church, countless head of stock, thousands of kilometres of fencing, 10,000 hectares of pasture, outbuildings, plantations and gardens, in fires to the north of this township. Residents of this region with many others across the State of Victoria, were involved in an event that changed the way in which these people would live their lives from that tragic Black Saturday onwards….and the community rallied to help. An enormous amount of support was given by the emergency services, CFA volunteers, families, friends, neighbours, businesses, clubs and societies, churches, local, state & Australian Government agencies and many anonymous total strangers – time, energy and money came from the rich, the poor, young, old, rural, suburban, even from those interstate and overseas. FIRE BINDS BURNS A COMMUNITY This mural, called AFTER: Art From The Extended Region, was conceived in the immediate aftermath of that devastating day, as a creative response to our neighbours’ plight and the witnessing of the public’s desire to be involved. Its vision was an inclusive display of strong community bonds and a symbol of transformation of lives and personal possessions into art. Each dark tile represents a fire affected site, with black signifying loss and grey indicating a threatened home that was saved. Close neighbours are positioned nearby, with the colours becoming lighter the further away the support was from. Every tile contains a unique story, created from donated material from residents connected to our locals in one way or another. This entire row from dark (close) to light (further away) has been dedicated to fire affected families from regions other than our own. The names of these contributors are listed with all of the many participants, and this being a memorial, some tiles are in memory of loved ones. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Artist, Kathryn Portelli, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 7 February 2010 |






Mitchell Shire, Central Memorial - Memorial Park, Broadford
Location Address | Cnr High Street & Murchison Street, Broadford |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating wall and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | A passive seating area composed of a stone seating wall with a stone bench, a memorial plaque displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, and granite gravel paving with steel edging. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday, 7 February 2009 The events of this day changed the lives of many residents of the Mitchell Shire forever. Bushfire Memorials Project Control Group. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 15 November 2014 |






Mitchell Shire, Clonbinane Memorial - Clonbinane Hall
Location Address | 11 Linton Street, Clonbinane |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating wall and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | A memorial composed of a stone seating wall with a timber bench, a memorial plaque displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, and plaque integrated into a seating wall. |
Wording on Plaque | Memories of a milestone in time; The breaking of that fateful dawn, Fire in the valley! A nuclear blast; Waiting for the wind to turn, The moment when the furnace hit: The choking smoke, so hard to breathe; Night turned on a flaming show Waking to an alien ‘scape, Dealing with the ‘after’ shock, Regrets and flashbacks, ‘survivor guilt’, Heroic tales of bravery, We will remember all that passed, C. Soulsby |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 8 February 2014 |






Mitchell Shire, Kilmore East Memorial - Kilmore East Recreation Reserve
Location Address | Cnr Kilmore East Road & O'Gradys Road, Kilmore East |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating wall and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Composed of a stone seating wall with a timber bench and a memorial plaque, displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, integrated into the seating wall. |
Wording on Plaque | Mitchell Shire |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |




Mitchell Shire, Reedy Creek Hall Memorial
Location Address | Doyle Street, Reedy Creek |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating wall and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Composed of a stone seating wall with a timber bench and a memorial plaque, displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, integrated into the seating wall. |
Wording on Plaque | Mitchell Shire |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |






Mitchell Shire, Sunday Creek Memorial
Location Address | Sunday Creek & Broadford Road intersection |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating wall and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Composed of a stone seating wall with a timber bench and a memorial plaque, displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, integrated into the seating wall. |
Wording on Plaque | Mitchell Shire |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |




Mitchell Shire, Upper Plenty Memorial
Location Address | Cnr Whittlesea-Wallan Road & Clarkes Road, Upper Plenty |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating wall and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Two stone seating walls facing each other with a memorial plaque, displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, integrated into one of the seating walls. |
Wording on Plaque | In memory of David Stokes Saturday February 7th 2009 In memory of Steve Lackas Saturday February 7th 2009 |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | December 2013 |






Mitchell Shire, Upper Reedy Creek Memorial
Location Address | Intersection of Thompsons Spur Road and Murchison Spur Road, Upper Reedy Creek |
Type of Memorial | Round stone pillar and memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | A round stone pillar with a memorial plaque, displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, on top. The plaque was illegally removed from the pillar. |
Wording on Plaque | Mitchell Shire |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |


Mitchell Shire, Wandong-Heathcote Junction Memorial - Wandong Memorial Park
Location Address | Epping-Kilmore Road, Wandong and Heathcote Junction, Wandong |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating walls in park. |
Description of Memorial | A memorial seating ring composed of a stone seating wall with foliage and a large yellow ribbon in the centre (which is a symbol of support for those affected by bushfires). Facing it is another stone seating wall with a memorial plaque, displaying a map of the region and the time that the fire reached each town, and plate integrated into the seating wall. A collection of wooden poles, resembling tree stumps, has been installed near the seating ring. Landscaping and vegetation surround the other elements. |
Wording on Plaque | BLACK SATURDAY 7th February 2009 This plaque was unveiled by Councillor Sue Marstaeller on Saturday 8th February 2014. Five years on and many in our community have still not come to terms with this terrible day in our town’s history. The town is poorer for losing some residents who cannot return, forever fearful that this may happen again. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 8 February 2014 |








Murrindindi Shire, Flowerdale Memorial
Location Address | Opposite 3008 Whittlesea-Yea Road, Flowerdale |
Type of Memorial | Commemorative gathering place |
Description of Memorial | Gathering space with spiral design features 11 locally sourced seating rocks and 11 native trees, honouring the lives of 11 people who died in the area during the 2009 fires. The spiral pathway leads to the Flowerdale Tree, a central sculptural feature. The sculpture is a stylised version of the Flowerdale Valley logo symbolising rebirth designed by Jessica Mason in 2009. The base of the tree sits in a corten steel dish designed to hold the community memory stones. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque1: Flowerdale Bushfire Memorial: In the wake of Black Saturday's destruction on 7 February 2009, the community experienced incomprehensible loss. This Flowerdale memorial is a spiral motif made of segments. The number 11 is also repeated in the seating and tees to honour the individuals who lost their lives locally. This place of remembrance leads to a central 'Flowerdale Tree' Sculptural feature with community pebbles at its base. Just like the power of the eucalypt whose green shoots will sprout forth again, our strength and our resilience will continue to grow in the traditional Australian spirit. This bond has united our communities, our state, our nation and the world renewing our faith and courage to physically recreate and rebuild our lives, homes, towns and hamlets.To learn more about the impact of the Black Saturday fires and the names of those who passed away in the Kilmore East Fire, please visit the Kinglake Memorial at Frank Thomson Reserve, Kinglake. Acknowledgement Plaque: To those who assisted our community during and following the events of 7 February 2009 Emergency Services Charitable Organisations Government Agencies All the volunteers and donors from near and far Thank you |
Who was involved in construction/design | Murrindindi Shire Council established a Bushfire Commemorations Working Group to provide advice and support through the memorials consultation process. Each community was integral in developing the final design for their own memorial. The design phase was undertaken by CONVIC in consultation with the community. Landscaping design by CONVIC. Contractor Fineblade Pty Ltd undertook the works. |
Date Memorial Completed | 2018 |




















Murrindindi Shire, Kinglake Memorial
Location Address | Frank Thomson Reserve, 255 Whittlesea-Kinglake Road, Kinglake |
Type of Memorial | Two gathering places |
Description of Memorial | The memorial features two gathering spaces designed in an eternity shape. A copse of gums is at the west of the site. The memorial structure features a circular space enclosed by a tapering concrete wall reducing in height from 2.5 metres to 1 metre. Within this space, the wall panels include text provided by the community which weaves around sandblasted tree motifs and stylised metal tree branches inscribed with names of individuals who died in each community. The space also includes an elliptical viewing portal looking to the west and the adjacent hills, local seating rocks and an etched map of the fire affected areas. The site includes 31 commemorative trees representing the lives lost in Kinglake. The memorial symbolises the persistence, courage and determination of the communities. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque 1 includes a map of the Kilmore East Fire: In February 2009, an event that we now know as Black Saturday caused vast areas of country Victoria to be devastated by immense bushfires, which led to Australia's highest ever loss from such a natural occurrence. Forty percent of Murrindindi Shire was burned and significant losses were also experienced in other parts of Victoria. Overall, the Shire was devastated with a total of 101 people losing their lives, and the destruction of 1,397 homes, 75 businesses, 16 community or government buildings and 234 sheds. The Kinglake Ranges, including Kinglake, Kinglake Central, Kinglake West and Pheasant Creek, Flowerdale and Marysville suffered significant loss of life and property. Toolangi, Castella, Narbethong and Strath Creek suffered some loss of life. Indescribable disruption occurred both physically and emotionally among the affected families and the surrounding communities. The persistence, courage and determination shown by communities has been inspirational. This memorial commemorates the experiences of our communities. The lives lost that day will never be forgotten. Acknowledgement Plaque: To those who assisted our community during and following the events of 7 February 2009 Emergency Services Charitable Organisations Government Agencies All the volunteers and donors from near and far Thank you |
Who was involved in construction/design | Murrindindi Shire Council established a Bushfire Commemorations Working Group to provide advice and support through the memorials consultation process. Each community was integral in developing the final design for their own memorial. The design phase was undertaken by CONVIC in consultation with the community. Landscaping design by CONVIC. Contractor Fineblade Pty Ltd undertook the works. |
Date Memorial Completed | 2018 |




















Murrindindi Shire, Kinglake West Memorial
Location Address | Western side of Whittlesea-Yea Road and Whittlesea-Kinglake Road intersection, Kinglake West |
Type of Memorial | Reflective space |
Description of Memorial | A curved pathway featuring sandblasted gum leaf motifs leads to a circular seating area with a metal gum leaves sculpture at its centre which is encircled by laser cut text provided by the community. The 16 gum leaves representing the 16 local lives lost in the fires symbolise renewal. A raised embankment surrounds the area and 16 trees have been planted to represent the 16 lives lost in Kinglake West. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque 1: Kinglake West Bushfire Memorial This memorial acknowledges the indelible mark of Black Saturday, 7 February 2009. 16 trees are located around the memorial representing those who passed away in the fire. The concrete path leading to the reflective space is scattered in sandblast relief motifs of gum leaves. A central gum leaves sculpture was chosen to signify renewal. While the loss suffered will never be forgotten, the community regenerates and renews in tandem with nature encouraged by the re-growth of the stunning flora and fauna which holds the breath and anchors the spirit. The community rebuilds. To learn more about the impact of the Black Saturday fires and the names of those who passed away in the Kilmore East Fire, please visit the Kinglake Memorial at Frank Thomson Reserve, Kinglake. Acknowledgement Plaque: To those who assisted our community during and following the events of 7 February 2009 Emergency Services Charitable Organisations Government Agencies All the volunteers and donors from near and far Thank you Text surrounding gum leaves sculpture: Watching the stars touch the blackness behind, we discover the universe above, as its light penetrates deep in our minds, so do our hearts open up to its love |
Who was involved in construction/design | Murrindindi Shire Council established a Bushfire Commemorations Working Group to provide advice and support through the memorials consultation process. Each community was integral in developing the final design for their own memorial. The design phase was undertaken by CONVIC in consultation with the community. Landscaping design by CONVIC. Contractor Fineblade Pty Ltd undertook the works. |
Date Memorial Completed | 2018 |




















Murrindindi Shire, Marysville Memorial
Location Address | 13 Falls Road, Marysville (via Gallipoli Park) |
Type of Memorial | Gathering place |
Description of Memorial | Three winding pathways lead to a central gathering place featuring sculptural steel elements. Three sculptural entry portals and two shadow inscription sculptures overhang the central gathering space like giant tree ferns. The shadow text sculptures cast shadows on the ground forming the words 'Black Saturday' and '07.02.2009'. A curved inscription wall describes the February 2009 events and lists the names of 40 people who lost their lives in the towns of Narbethong and Marysville. The inscriptive text and images capture words and poems from the community and reflect the ongoing recovery. Reclaimed timber from Marysville's oak trees were used to make seating throughout the site. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque 1: In February 2009, vast areas of country Victoria were devastated by catastrophic bushfires resulting in Australia's highest ever loss of life from a bushfire. Forty percent of Murrindindi Shire was burned and significant losses were also experienced in other parts of Victoria. Overall, the Shire was devastated with a total of 101 people losing their lives, and the destruction of 1,397 homes, 75 businesses, 16 community or government buildings and 234 sheds. The Murrindindi Fire started around 2.55pm on 7 February, near the township of Murrindindi, and travelled rapidly. By 4.30pm it had reached Narbethong. The wind direction changed at about 6.15pm and the fire continued to rage through Granton, Marysville, Buxton and Taggerty with catastrophic consequence. This became known as Black Saturday. The fire was not officially contained until 5 March 2009. This memorial commemorates the loss of 40 lives as a result of Black Saturday, in these locations. It acknowledges those injured during the fires, the destruction of homes, properties, livelihood, animals and wildlife, community and treasured landscapes. The courage shown by those who provided assistance in the response, relief and recovery effort will never be forgotten. The spirit and determination of the community to nurture regrowth and renewal remain an enduring legacy. Acknowledgement Plaque: To those who assisted our community during and following the events of 7 February 2009 Emergency Services Charitable Organisations Government Agencies All the volunteers and donors from near and far Thank you |
Who was involved in construction/design | Murrindindi Shire Council established a Bushfire Commemorations Working Group to provide advice and support through the memorials consultation process. Each community was integral in developing the final design for their own memorial. The design phase was undertaken by CONVIC in consultation with the community. Landscaping design by CONVIC. Contractor Fineblade Pty Ltd undertook the works. |
Date Memorial Completed | 2018 |




















Murrindindi Shire, Narbethong Memorial
Location Address | Narbethong Forest Reserve, 618 Maroondah Highway, Narbethong |
Type of Memorial | Reflective space |
Description of Memorial | The circular memorial, nestled in the bushland of the Narbethong Forest Reserve, is surrounded by four large seating rocks. At its centre stands a stone cairn made of 173 locally sourced rocks - each rock represents a life lost in the 2009 bushfires. Four of these rocks are distinct, each representing a life lost from the Narbethong community. A viewing portal in the shape of an unfurling fern frond features text provided by the community. The fern frond image is also sandblasted into the concrete base of the memorial. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque 1: Narbethong Bushfire Memorial In February 2009, vast areas of country Victoria were devastated by catastrophic bushfires resulting in Australia's highest ever loss of life from a bushfire. This became known as Black Saturday. The Murrindindi Fire reached Narbethong at 4.30pm on 7 February, 2009, causing devastation and resulting in the loss of four precious lives. This memorial is dedicated to those who lost their lives, and to the community of Narbethong whose spirit was not destroyed in the aftermath of the fire. The perimeter of the memorial site consists of four large locally sourced seating rocks honouring those lost in the fire. The centre piece of the memorial is comprised of three elements: the unfurling fern frond motif which wraps around a stone cairn and a viewing portal to the rear. May those who passed continue to inspire everyone to enter each day with a generous heart full of love and courage. Text on the unfurling fern portal: Beyond flames, and the darkest days, find peace in Natures green embrace Acknowledgement Plaque: To those who assisted our community during and following the events of 7 February 2009 Emergency Services Charitable Organisations Government Agencies All the volunteers and donors from near and far Thank you |
Who was involved in construction/design | Murrindindi Shire Council established a Bushfire Commemorations Working Group to provide advice and support through the memorials consultation process. Each community was integral in developing the final design for their own memorial. The design phase was undertaken by CONVIC in consultation with the community. Landscaping design by CONVIC. Contractor Fineblade Pty Ltd undertook the works. |
Date Memorial Completed | 2018 |




















Murrindindi Shire, Toolangi Castella Memorial
Location Address | Castella Central Park, corner of Melba Highway and Healesville-Kinglake Road, Castella |
Type of Memorial | Gathering space |
Description of Memorial | Nestled among the trees, eleven inscribed stepping stones lead to the memorial. The steps are a timeline of the fires. A stained glass sculpture stands at the centre, symbolising the past, present and future with the fire at the base, regeneration in the middle and the future at the top. The space includes five locally crafted timber seats. |
Wording on Plaque | Toolangi/Castella Bushfire Memorial This memorial tells part of the story of the Black Saturday fire that burned on 7 February 2009 through a series of 11 stepping stones. The past, present and future are symbolised through a sculptural glass element located as the centre piece of the gathering space. The sculpture is surrounded by locally crafted timber seats fashioned from a log that survived the fire and was laid to rest on the site of the memorial. Two lives lost are honoured. "Let us not look for you only in memory, where we would grow lonely without you. You would want us to find you in presence, beside us when beauty brightens, when kindness glows and music echoes eternal tones." Poem by John O'Donohue. To learn more about the impact of the Black Saturday fires and the names of those who passed away in the Kilmore East Fire, please visit the Kinglake Memorial at Frank Thomson Reserve, Kinglake. Acknowledgement Plaque: To those who assisted our community during and following the events of 7 February 2009 Emergency Services Charitable Organisations Government Agencies All the volunteers and donors from near and far Thank you |
Who was involved in construction/design | Murrindindi Shire Council established a Bushfire Commemorations Working Group to provide advice and support through the memorials consultation process. Each community was integral in developing the final design for their own memorial. The design phase was undertaken by CONVIC in consultation with the community. Landscaping design by CONVIC. Contractor Fineblade Pty Ltd undertook the works. |
Date Memorial Completed | 2018 |






























Nillumbik Shire, Bald Spur Road Memorial
Location Address | Bald Spur Road, St Andrews |
Type of Memorial | Memorial ring. |
Description of Memorial | Composed of a large metal ring engraved with words of remembrance and acknowledgement, surrounded by 14 large rocks commemorating the 14 lives lost in St Andrews. The memorial is intended to be a space for personal reflection and memory. |
Wording on Plaque | Remembering Finding your way Devastation. Then silence. Hope and regeneration. |
Who was involved in construction/design | The RMIT Landscape Architecture Department, including Professor SueAnne Ware and Masters students, worked on the design process with the St Andrews Bushfire Memorial Working Group, with input from the community. The metal ring is engraved with prose by Elizabeth Savage Kooroonya. |














Nillumbik Shire, Christmas Hills Memorial
Location Address | Junction of Skyline Road North, Osborne Road and Mount Wise Road, Christmas Hills |
Type of Memorial | Memorial water tank. |
Description of Memorial | The community of Christmas Hills wanted a practical memorial. A bronze plaque signifies that the tank is a memorial. The tank acknowledges efforts of emergency service workers and recovery efforts of the community. |
Wording on Plaque | Memorial |
Who was involved in construction/design | Installation of the water tank was done by Cobaeg Holdings Pty Ltd. |


Nillumbik Shire, St Andrews Memorial - St Andrews Community Centre
Location Address | 35 Caledonia Street, St Andrews |
Type of Memorial | Memorial garden, nook, rock and artwork. |
Description of Memorial | A memorial garden comprising landscaping and a sculptural seat, a memorial nook with plaques and the St Andrews Slumped Glass Bowl Memorial Artwork, and a memorial rock and sculpture. |
Wording on Plaque | Memorial Garden: This garden is one element of the St Andrews Black Saturday memorial. It is dedicated to the memory of the events of 7 February 2009. A day of raging fires that claimed the lives of 14 people in St Andrews and forever changed our lives, our community and our environment. Memorial Rock and Sculpture: Man and Fire - Shane McGrath and the Men's Shed at St Andrews 2013-2015 The task from the outset was to create a new work in collaboration with the Men’s Shed of St Andrews as part of the 2013 Laughing Waters artist residency of Shane McGrath. The concept came out of the steam-bending workshop that artist Shane McGrath presented to the Men’s Shed as a way of experimenting with materials and techniques and introducing a new skill to the shed. The end result would be curved timbers of various lengths that would be used to create an organic sculpture to mark the opening of the new Men’s Shed. This became a successful trial and error exercise. Nook: BLACK SATURDAY The choice of timber as a material is meant as a confident act of defiance towards the elements, while simultaneously acknowledging the fragility of the surrounding natural environment. The copper helps to accentuate the suggestion of flames, but here they are contained and docile. |
Who was involved in construction/design | The RMIT Landscape Architecture Department, including Professor SueAnne Ware and Masters students, worked on the design process with the St Andrews Bushfire Memorial Working Group, with input from the community. Leanne Mooney, artist - Dreaming Seat. R Hughes, artist - Leaf Memorial Book. R Hayley, artist - St Andrews slumped glass bowl. |








Nillumbik Shire, Strathewen Community Memorial
Location Address | Strathewen Recreation Reserve, 160 Chadds Creek Road, Strathewen |
Type of Memorial | Remembrance Garden and Labyrinth. |
Description of Memorial | The memorial is composed of a series of overlapping circular forms - like a labyrinth - that create places reflecting the process of healing. Ripples of slate and sandstone radiating from four central stainless steel domes reference the ripple effects of the fire on the broader community. Each circle carries its own theme of beauty, loss, rebuilding, hope and rejuvenation. Individual stories from community members are included to create a collective voice. The memorial is not just to those who had lost their lives, but also to the loss of animals, homes and the surrounding landscape, as well as its impact on the close-knit community. |
Wording on Plaque | One of the circles includes individual plaques for each of the deceased. |
Who was involved in construction/design | A collaboration between Urban Initiatives and Arterial Design. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | September 2012 |








Nillumbik Shire, The Blacksmiths Tree - Strathewen
Location Address | Peter Avola Memorial Park, 160 Chadds Creek Road, Strathewen |
Type of Memorial | Memorial tree. |
Description of Memorial | Made of stainless steel, the tree weighs two-and-a-half tonnes, stands 10 metres high and features more than 3,500 intricate and individually forged leaves. The leaves and branches are TIG (tungsten inert gas) welded or brazed and the leaves are made of stainless steel or copper. The Blacksmiths Tree has been developed as a gift to all communities impacted by the bushfires of 7th Feb 2009. It was meant as a gift from the blacksmiths of the world to the bushfire-affected communities and was forged by hundreds of blacksmiths across 20 countries. However, the communities became involved, creating an extraordinary piece of community art. Poignant messages for victims, communities and volunteer firefighters adorn about 1,500 of the eucalyptus leaves, which people had the opportunity to sponsor. |
Wording on Plaque | The front inscription, underneath the tree base reads: I have risen from the flames |
Who was involved in construction/design | The Australian Blacksmiths Association (Victoria) Inc. coordinated the project in consultation with the community, and forged the trunk and the branches. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 30 November 2013 |










Southern Grampians Shire, Coleraine Town Entrance Sign
Location Address | Glenelg Highway, Coleraine |
Type of Memorial | Town entrance sign. |
Description of Memorial | Welcome to Coleraine' town entrance sign embedded in two low stone pillars. |
Wording on Plaque | N/A |
Who was involved in construction/design | Southern Grampians Shire Council worked with the Coleraine Bushfire Recovery Committee, in consultation with the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | June 2011 |


South Gippsland Shire, Compassion in Adversity (Sam the Koala) – Baromi Park
Location Address | 49 Ridgeway Street, Mirboo North |
Type of Memorial | Bronze bas-relief sculpture. |
Description of Memorial | A bronze bas-relief sculpture featuring a koala (known locally as Sam) receiving a drink of water from a volunteer fire-fighter. This was on the 3rd day of the Delburn complex bushfires of late Jan/early Feb 2009. |
Wording on Plaque | Compassion in Adversity |
Who was involved in construction/design | Michael Meszaros, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 29 October 2011 |




Southern Grampians Shire, Points Arboretum Peter Francis Memorial Lookout
Location Address | Top Hilgay Road (Off Winter street), Coleraine |
Type of Memorial | Lookout with storyboard. |
Description of Memorial | Galvanized iron construction of lookout platform with storyboard overlooking view. |
Wording on Plaque | POINTS ARBORETUM Peter Francis Memorial Lookout The Points Arboretum Memorial Lookout Platform Project was completed in 2011, through the Community Recovery Fund, an initiative of the Australian Government and the Victorian State Government. Project coordination was provided by Southern Grampians Shire Council and the Coleraine Bushfire Recovery Committee. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Southern Grampians Shire Council worked with the Coleraine Bushfire Recovery Committee, in consultation with the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | June 2011 |




Southern Grampians Shire, East Park Roadside Stop Memorial
Location Address | Corner Robertson Street and Glenelg Highway, Coleraine |
Type of Memorial | Roadside stop and shelter. |
Description of Memorial | Sheltered roadside stop with seating, history board and signage. |
Wording on Plaque | EAST PARK ROADSIDE STOP A Bushfire Recovery Project The Coleraine East Park Roadside Stop Project was completed in 2012, through the Community Recovery Fund, an initiative of the Australian Government and the Victorian State Government. Project coordination was provided by Southern Grampians Shire Council and the Coleraine Bushfire Recovery Committee. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Southern Grampians Shire Council worked with the Coleraine Bushfire Recovery Committee, in consultation with the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 2012 |








Wellington Shire, Balook Memorial - Mount Tassie
Location Address | Traralgon-Balook Road, Mount Tassie |
Type of Memorial | Memorial plaque. |
Description of Memorial | A memorial plaque set in a rock, on the Grand Strzelecki Track. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday In memory of those tragically taken from us and in recognition of the brave actions of all who helped. |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was managed by the Balook and District Residents Association, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | May 2009 |










Wellington Shire, Gormandale Memorial - Gormandale Recreation Reserve
Location Address | Yarram Traralgon Road, Gormandale |
Type of Memorial | Memorial garden and mosaic seat. |
Description of Memorial | Comprised of a landscaped memorial garden, including picnic seating, plaque and community art seat. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday - Gormandale Community Garden - |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was managed by the Gormandale Community Recovery Committee, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 25 March 2011 |












Whittlesea, Humevale Road Memorial
Location Address | 925 Whittlesea-Yea Road, Corner/Intersection of Coombs, Yea and Humevale Roads, Kinglake West |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating with plaques at roadside stop. |
Description of Memorial | Stone wall with seating and plaques, facing a curved concrete wall with a further bronze plaque containing the names of the people who died. These elements are separated by granite stone paving and surrounded by plantings of native vegetation. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque 1: On February 7, 2009 devastating bushfires raged across Victoria. 173 people died. This memorial is dedicated to the memory of twelve local people who lived and died in the area of Coombs, Humevale and Yea Roads. The impact of the bushfires changed the environment and our community forever. Over 2000 homes were destroyed or damaged, and extensive damage occurred to infrastructure and community facilities. 430,000 hectares of bush and productive farmland were burnt. The regeneration of the natural environment is visible and inspiring to those who continue on their life journey. The generosity and goodwill demonstrated by the broader community in the days, weeks, months and years after the fires was overwhelming and greatly appreciated by those impacted. A larger memorial and more detailed information about the local impacts of Black Saturday can be found at Toorourrong Reservoir Park on Jack's Creek Road, 7km towards Whittlesea on the right. Plaque 2: Just as metals are bonded through intense heat, So too are we bonded with our families now passed away. Strengthened in our hearts, their existence laminates every part of our being, How wonderful it is to still have you here within us. Plaque 3: This place honours our memories of people from this local area taken by bushfires, February 2009 Lesley Maree Leahy 39 Lloyd Martin 83 Barry Johnston 59 Brian Naylor 78 Allan O’Gorman 55 |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Hatchling Studios Pty Ltd, with input from the community. |






Wellington Shire, Yarram Memorial - Yarram Community Amphitheatre
Location Address | Commercial Road, Yarram |
Type of Memorial | Community amphitheatre with plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Comprises an artistic concrete community amphitheatre with seating. The project is acknowledged with a plaque on a large rock adjacent to the amphitheatre. |
Wording on Plaque | Black Saturday -The Station Art Project- |
Who was involved in construction/design | The project was managed by the Yarram Community Recovery Committee, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 18 February 2012 |






Whittlesea Memorial - Toorourong Reservoir Park
Location Address | 120 Jacks Creek Road, Whittlesea |
Type of Memorial | Reflective garden space with plaques and information. |
Description of Memorial | Situated on the edge of the pond, the design is based on a seed-pod with two granite stone walls enclosing granite seats representing seeds dispersing out of the pod and into the pond, symbolising new life and regeneration. |
Wording on Plaque | A reflective space in memory of the tragedies of Black Saturday February 7, 2009. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Concept design by Hatchling Studios Pty Ltd, with input from the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 24 October 2015 |














Yarra Ranges, Chum Creek Memorial
Location Address | Healesville-Kinglake Road, Chum Creek |
Type of Memorial | Picnic table and seating with plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Standard picnic table and seating mounted on concrete slab with plaque. The memorials are dedicated to the thirteen people in Yarra Ranges who lost their lives on 7 February 2009, and residents who responded with resilience, ingenuity, courage and selflessness. |
Wording on Plaque | Dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives on 7 February, 2009 |
Who was involved in construction/design | Design, development and installation by the community. |




Yarra Ranges, Dixons Creek Memorial - Dixons Creek Recreation Reserve
Location Address | Melba Highway, Dixons Creek |
Type of Memorial | Stone and wooden seating with plaques. |
Description of Memorial | 3 granite slab stone seats with plaques placed around a walking track and one wooden seat with a plaque. |
Wording on Plaque | Plaque 1: ‘Black Saturday’ will remain in our minds forever. For those that lost so much on ‘Black Saturday’ we admire your resilience to move on. Plaque 2: ‘Black Saturday’ was one of the worst natural disasters in Australia’s history and we remember those that were lost. Strength and resilience to all. History will remember you. Plaque 3: ‘Black Saturday’ was a test of strength and character. For those that fought so hard to keep your community safe we admire and thank you. Plaque 4: BLACK SATURDAY You are all remembered in our hearts and memories. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Drews Views Landscaping, with input from bereaved family members who also provided wording for the plaques. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | July 2013 |










Yarra Ranges, Healesville Memorial – Queens Park
Location Address | 36 Don Road, Healesville |
Type of Memorial | Memorial seat with wording. |
Description of Memorial | Semi-circular memorial bench seat with memories of the fire from community members etched into the seat. The memorials are dedicated to the thirteen people in Yarra Ranges who lost their lives on 7 February 2009, and residents who responded with resilience, ingenuity, courage and selflessness. |
Wording on Plaque | “I remember … ” the stories begin, with different comments from community members etched into the metal. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Ali Griffin |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 12 December 2013 |






Yarra Ranges, Kinglake Memorial - Kinglake National Park (Giraween Walk)
Location Address | Kinglake National Park, King Lake West |
Type of Memorial | Stone seating with plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Seating constructed of stone and basalt slab with memorial plaque. |
Wording on Plaque | In memory of |
Who was involved in construction/design | Drews Views Landscaping, with input from bereaved family members who also provided wording for the plaques. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | July 2013 |




Yarra Ranges, Steels Creek Memorials - Steels Creek Community Centre and Steels Creek Walking Track
Location Address | 699 Steels Creek Road, Steels Creek |
Type of Memorial | Sculpture and plaque. |
Description of Memorial | Lifesized wooden carving of three schoolchildren. There is also a bluestone trough with a memorial plaque adjacent to Steels Creek Walking Track and the property of Graham and Angie Lloyd. |
Wording on Plaque | Please Stop, Rest and Refresh |
Who was involved in construction/design | Rob Bast, with input from bereaved family members who also provided wording for the plaques. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | July 2013 |




Yarra Ranges, Yarra Glen Memorial – McKenzie Reserve
Location Address | Anzac Avenue, Yarra Glen |
Type of Memorial | Sculpture and reflective space. |
Description of Memorial | Three panel glass and concrete wall within a roofed shelter. The panels illustrate the ferocity of the fire and its destructive force, and then the rebuilding of the community and regeneration of the land that followed. Within the memorial space, lights commemorate the people who lost their lives. A bronze plaque is mounted on a rock to show the extent of the fire within the Yarra Ranges. A description of the event is also included. The memorial includes a meditative space adjacent to the playground in McKenzie Reserve. The memorials are dedicated to the thirteen people in Yarra Ranges who lost their lives on 7 February 2009, and residents who responded with resilience, ingenuity, courage and selflessness. |
Wording on Plaque | Yarra Ranges In the afternoon strong northerly winds carried embers from the Kilmore fires to the Yarra Glen district. By 3.30pm several fires had started. A Southerly wind change redirected the fires, which developed into an inferno. Thirteen lives were lost, 340 dwellings destroyed or damaged and 48,289 hectares of forest and farmland burnt with countless outbuildings, livestock and wildlife lost. Three days of heroic effort by the emergency services and members of the local community prevented an even bigger catastrophe. |
Who was involved in construction/design | Ernst Fries. Additional design, development and installation by the community. |
Date Memorial Completed/Announced | 25 November 2013 |









