To memorialise our former and existing defence force members, a new shelter at Manly Warringah War Memorial State Park (also known as Manly Dam) will be unveiled just in time for ANZAC Day.

The shelter has been designed to be in keeping with the look and feel of the park and respectfully sits alongside the war memorial space offering a spot for social gatherings, community connection, rest and reflection.

The shelter, located at the southern end of the first carpark area, features three sandstone columns representing the three services of the Australian Defence Force, with supporting metal frame and roofing. It provides a covered circular paved terrace area overlooking the lower sculptural terraces and Manly Dam.  

Upgrades to the existing pathways and reconfiguration of some car parking spaces will provide all-ability access to this much-loved community space.

Regarded as a War Memorial since the 1920s, the Park was last year officially recognised on the State Heritage Register.

This heritage listing will help protect this treasured area for generations of Sydneysiders to continue enjoying now and into the future and commemorate those Australian military personnel who have served and continue to serve our country proudly.

Manly Dam covers 375 hectares of pristine bushland within a predominately urban landscape and is rich in natural biodiversity, with over 300 native plant species, including some endangered species and is also home to the Gayamaygal people.

To pay your respects, come along to Council’s annual ANZAC Day dawn service on site commencing at 5.30am (arrive by 5.15am). Find out where your local service is here.  

The project has been funded by the NSW Government, under the Open Spaces Program (Places to Swim) and contribution from Manly Warringah War Memorial Park Remembrance Trust.