The Australian Chinese Ex-Services Monument
The monument commemorates the sacrifice made by Australians of Chinese heritage who have served in the various conflicts in which Australia has been involved. The site for the memorial was dedicated on the 11th November 2002 and the memorial was unveiled on the 14th March 2003.
Chinese Australians made significant contributions during the South African (Boer) War, World War One, World War Two, the conflict in Malaya, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and other conflicts.
Vision and community support for the Monument
The founding members of the Australian Chinese Ex-Services Association, led by Mr Thomas Cheong OAM, envisioned a permanent landmark to remember all Australians of Chinese descent who fought in the defence of Australia in war.
They were later joined by the many other members of the Chinese Australian community to turn this vision into reality. The Honourable Henry Tsang OAM who served as the patron and chair of the project committee played an pivotal role in leading the advocacy and engagement with government and community groups.
To support the project, the New South Wales Government provided the land, ran a design competition for the monument and contributed $60,000 towards. The Commonwealth Department of Veterans Affairs contributed $25,000 and the $250,000 was donated by community.
Design
The Australian Chinese Ex-Services Monument is designed as a sculptural urban marker comprising 380 light rods which spiral 230 degrees around a central column. The circular geometry echoes the belief in Chinese culture that death does not terminate the relationships of reciprocity. The light rods represent remembered soldiers and recall candles which are lit during the ceremony of universal salvation.
The monument is a tribute to the commitment and contribution of Australian Chinese Ex-Services to the nation. It was made possible with the support of the Commonwealth and New South Wales governments, and the generosity of the community.