Enhanced Eternal Flame burning brighter to honour veterans

• Crisafulli Government has upgraded the Eternal Flame at Brisbane’s Anzac Square ahead of Remembrance Day. 
• Investment to future-proof the Eternal Flame for generations to come.
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering for Queensland with practical measures to recognise services, strengthen wellbeing, and improve outcomes for veterans’ and their families. 

Queensland’s State Memorial, the Eternal Flame at Brisbane’s Anzac Square, has been upgraded to burn with a more visible flame and with increased reliability ahead of Remembrance Day.  

The Crisafulli Government has invested to update the quality of the flame ensuring greater visibility during daylight hours, and to improve the safety equipment and the burner within the urn.  

The memorial was Australia’s first Eternal Flame when lit by the Governor of Queensland Sir John Goodwin on Armistice Day – as Remembrance Day was known – on 11 November 1930, the year in which Anzac Square was opened to honour the service personnel who died as a result of the First World War.   

After 90 years in the care of Brisbane City Council, the upkeep of Anzac Square and the three Anzac Square Memorial Galleries beneath the parklands are now the responsibility of the Queensland Veterans’ Council. 

Brisbane’s Anzac Square and its War Memorial underwent a major multi-stage restoration in 2014, led by Brisbane City Council, to fix severe water leaks and structural repairs to preserve the historic landmark. 

Premier and Minister for Veterans David Crisafulli said the modernisation of the Eternal Flame mechanism ensured it would endure for future generations.   

“The memorial is a place to gather for many Queenslanders every year to remember those who have sacrificed and that’s why we are future proofing the Eternal Flame means it will remain the heart of ANZAC commemorations,” Premier Crisafulli said. 

“In 1930, it was reported the Eternal Flame should remain a beacon of light and inspiration to rising and future generations, and this is what we are doing. 

“Our Government is delivering more for veterans and their families than ever before, including the State's first Queensland Veterans and Veterans’ Families Strategy, and we are proud to support improvements to the Anzac Square site.” 

Queensland Veterans’ Council Chair Lorraine Hatton OAM said the Eternal Flame continued to serve as a powerful focal point for veterans, families and the broader community to honour and remember those who have served. 

“The work recently conducted on the Queensland Anzac Square Eternal Flame is of great importance as it is a powerful symbol of eternal life, perpetual gratitude, and the belief that if the flame does not die, neither will the memory of the fallen,” Ms Hatton said. 

“The continuous fire represents an unbroken link to fallen comrades, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten by future generations. 

“It is a permanent, tangible connection for veterans and families to gather in remembrance to mourn loved ones and honour their ultimate sacrifice.” 

ENDS 

MEDIA CONTACT: Georgia Bakalich, 0422 126 773