DURING World War I, the people of Canungra raised money to build a suitable War Memorial to honour those the brave people that enlisted from Canungra and surrounding shire, including Tamborine Mountain, Tamborine, Biddaddaba and Beechmont.
The trustees of The Canungra War Memorial fund faced considerable difficulty in reaching a consensus on both the location and the design of the memorial. After much deliberation, the decision was made possible thanks to the generous and gracious donation of land by Mrs. Catherine Smith in 1938. Mrs. Smith offered a central plot in the heart of the town, which became the site for what would later be known as D.J. Smith Memorial Park.
Catherine Smith’s generous contribution not only provided the ideal location but also paved the way for the establishment of the Cenotaph, a prominent feature within the park. Built by Petrie & Sons, the Cenotaph is an impressive landmark made of rough-cut granite, topped with a 200-candle power electric light, symbolizing the enduring memory of those who served. Mrs. Smith’s donation played a crucial role in ensuring that this lasting tribute was realized, and it continues to stand as a significant part of the town’s rich legacy.
The Canungra War Memorial Committee was pleased to learn that the Tamborine Shire Council had agreed to cover the ongoing cost of maintaining the monument’s lighting. The Canungra War Memorial unveiling ceremony was marked on Anzac Day in 1938 by Mr. A.G. Muller MLA, marking the beginning of a long tradition of remembrance, with the memorial continuing to serve as a place of reflection and honour for generations to come. The Canungra War Memorial remains a symbol of the district’s deep respect and gratitude for those who have served in defence of the nation.
Two sides of the Canungra War Memorial proudly display the names of 136 local men who enlisted for service during World War I, including those who worked in the area’s sawmills. These men answered the call to duty, leaving behind their families to serve on the front lines. Among these names, 18 are those of men who tragically lost their lives in action, making the ultimate sacrifice in defence of their country.
Following World War II, the third side of the Canungra War Memorial was dedicated to recording the names of those who served in the armed forces during the 1939-1945 conflict. A total of 170 names were added to this side, including 20 men who made the ultimate sacrifice. These names were inscribed on the memorial for the Anzac Day in 1954, a touching reminder of the community’s contributions to the war effort.
These names represent, not only the individual soldiers but also the families of Canungra and the surrounding district, who were forever affected by the war. Many of the names etched into the memorial belong to families that are still present in the district today, preserving a deep connection to the region’s history.
Some of the families represented include Row, Binstead, Cameron, Caswell, Corcoran Curtis, Day, Duncan, Finch, Geissman, Gittins, Hartley, Lee, McVey, Munster, O’Reilly, Sharp, Slingsby, Smith, Watterson, and Wilson, among many others.
These names stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of service, sacrifice, and the profound impact of World War II on the Canungra community. The memorial continues to serve as a place of remembrance and pride for families, descendants, and surrounding community, ensuring that the contributions of those who served in this critical conflict are never forgotten.
The Canungra War Memorial stands as a significant site for commemorative ceremonies held throughout the year, The Dawn Service on Anzac morning, and the Anzac Morning service, Remembrance Day and Vietnam Veterans, ensure the memory of those who served lives on, fostering reflection, gratitude, and community unity bringing together both the local community and those with ties to the district to honour the service and sacrifices of those who served.
For those looking to explore the Scenic Rim region’s history, staying at Country Mile Escape is ideal, as it’s just a short distance from the park. During your stay, you can visit the historical War Memorial in the DJ Smith Park, which offers multiple perfect setting for a family picnic, with shaded areas, picnic tables, and expansive lawns for a relaxed outdoor experience. The park also features a fantastic playground with slides, swings, and climbing structures, providing endless fun for children of all ages. You can also read more about Canungra history here.
