Brisbane Open House 2026 tour: history of Anzac Square Memorial Galleries

As part of Brisbane Open House, join us for a free 30-minute guided tour exploring the history behind Queensland’s pre-eminent war memorial.
About this Event

Have you ever wanted to learn more about the history and design of Anzac Square and Memorial Galleries?

Opened in 1930, Anzac Square is the State War Memorial of Queensland, a significant public and historical site dedicated to the men and women who have served their country in conflict and in peace since the Boer War. It was borne from a grieving society that gave and lost so much during World War I, and was funded by individual donations – ordinary people who were themselves facing difficult times in the years between World War I and the Great Depression. Since 1931, more than 130 memorial plaques have been laid within the galleries, commemorating the service and sacrifice of Queensland-associated military units.

As part of Brisbane Open House 2026, join us for a free 30-minute guided tour exploring the history behind Queensland’s pre-eminent war memorial. Come along to discover:

• The largely unknown history of the Memorial Galleries; a hidden treasure beneath the Cenotaph.
• The history and design behind some of the memorial plaques and honour rolls within the galleries.
• The recent renovations undertaken to maintain, restore, protect and respectfully enhance the galleries to ensure their continued use and relevance for current and future generations.

The colourful Venetian glass mosaic created by late Brisbane artist Don Ross will also be on display during Brisbane Open House and for a limited time from Monday 6 July to Sunday 2 August 2026 inclusive.

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