As we approach ANZAC Day, we’re taking a look back in time at the lush heritage-listed parklands that sit adjacent to the Breakwater Marina here on the Strand.

The Strand Parklands, initially constructed in 1912, were designed primarily for leisure and rejuvenation. A key feature of this development was the establishment of a bandstand Rotunda in 1913, intended for open-air concerts that allowed residents to relish balmy summer evenings amidst the outdoors.

From at least the 1920s, The Strand Park was a focus for Anzac Day ceremonies. In 1923–24 a memorial clocktower was erected in the park in memory of the soldiers who lost their lives in WW1.

The Parklands were officially re-named ANZAC Memorial Park in 1932 after it was suggested by the RSL with a memorial arch built over the entrance gates prior to Anzac Day 1934.

The colourful Centenary Fountain was unveiled as a centerpiece in 1964, an illuminated water fountain that has 68 colour changes with multicoloured lights. Anzac Park also contains a number of memorial structures including the Battle of the Coral Sea Memorial and the Garden of Remembrance, with each year, on ANZAC Day and other significant occasions, the wider community gathers to honor the fallen, to reflect on the cost of freedom, and to reaffirm their commitment to never forget.

We're very lucky to have these beautiful commemorative parklands as a backdrop to our Marina Community. If you have the time to attend this year's ANZAC Day Commemorations, the Dawn service starts from 5.20am.

For more interesting photos and stories of Townsville's history, head to: https://stories.townsville.qld.gov.au/

Credits for photos from QLD Gov, https://queenslandplaces.com.au/ and various photos from the Facebook Group "I Grew Up In Townsville"