Albury Second World War Memorial Bowl

The Albury Second World War Memorial Bowl is a leveled, grassed area, located in a park setting. The focal point of the bowl is a semi-circular stage made of concrete, accessed by four concrete steps that run the width of the stage. The back wall of the stage is a low, rock and mortar wall, which continues around the full perimeter of the bowl, creating a clearly identifiable border for the space. The stage is flanked by stone staircases and there are plaques commemorating those who served in the war, on the interior and exterior sides of the wall nearby. 

In 1946, two suggestions were being discussed for a memorial to the war, the bowl and a dam on the Hume Lake. By early 1949, the bowl was the preferred option, with two plans being submitted by the city engineer to the committee (The Border Morning Mail, 5 July 1946; 8 February 1949). 

The bowl cost £6,000 to construct, with most of the funds coming from the first three Floral Festivals held in Albury. The dedication and grand opening was held on Sunday, 28 November 1954. Approximately 450 people attended the event, with RSL President Ron Umphelby conducting the ceremony. The plaque unveiling was performed by the oldest local RSL member, Angelo Francis Buzzini and the oldest former alderman, G. A. Williams. The festivities included choral performances and the opening of the 1954 Floral Festival (Daily Advertiser, 27 November 1954).

The bowl is located towards the bottom of Monument Hill, which is the site of the Albury and District War Memorial.