City of Darwin wishes to advise that the venue for the Bombing of Darwin commemorative service has changed from the Darwin Cenotaph to the Darwin Convention Centre.
The event will still take place on Monday 19 February 2024, from 9.30am.
This change is due to the ongoing impacts of recent wet weather across Darwin.
City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said it was in the public’s best interest to change the venue.
“After consulting with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), we have decided the best course of action is to change locations for the Bombing of Darwin commemorative event,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“The event remains a free event that is open to members of the general public, however the change of venue does mean we lose some capacity, so please arrive early to secure a spot.
“It also means that some elements of the service, such as the re-enactment of the events that took place 82 years ago and the 8/12th regiment firing of guns, are no longer able to take place.
“We apologise to anyone who may be affected by this change, but we are confident it is the right decision to preserve the commemoration,” he said.
The Bombing of Darwin commemorative service will include a performance by the Band of the 1st Brigade, Australian Defence Force catafalque party, commemorative address and wreath laying.
There will also be a commemoration event taking place at the USS Peary Memorial at The Esplanade, Bicentennial Park at 8am.
