Shrine of Remembrance

Discover the unlikely, and at times almost unbelievable story behind a horse saddle on display in the Shrine's Galleries of Remembrance. Former Warrant Officer Leon Dimmack joins us to uncover the tale and how the saddle went from almost being thrown in the trash to an invaluable treasure. 

Uncover the world of camouflage with author and academic Professor Ann Elias. Explore the artists, creatives, and naturalists who shaped camouflage techniques during conflict, the challenges they faced, and how their creative contributions influenced the Australian military. From face paint to full scale deception, you'll discover there's more to camouflage than meets they eye. 

These detailed, intricate shoes may look beautiful, but they have a horrific history.  In this episode of Shrine Stories, join Exhibitions Coordinator Katrina Nicolson as she uncovers the story behind a pair of Lotus shoes on display in our galleries, and their unlikely link to stories of service.  WARNING: This episode contains themes that may be distressing for some audience. Listener discretion is advised. 

If you've been to a service at the Shrine, you will have seen our Shrine Guard dressed in their distinct uniform. And this year marks 90 years of their service to the Shrine.  In this episode you'll uncover how the Shrine Guard were formed, what their role looks like today, and importantly, how long it takes to shine their shoes with Senior Protective Services Officer David Rose'Meyer. 

The saying goes, ‘an army marches on its stomach', but in theory what does this actually look like? How is food prepared in a makeshift kitchen during deployment? Who coordinates getting fresh food to these kitchens? And how are military chefs trained to withstand such a high-pressure environment in the face of conflict? Discover all this and more with Major Ruth Hayes OAM and Captain Brett Williams (Retd), who between them, have decades of experiences in the world of military catering. 

Ration packs are perhaps one of first things that spring to mind when we think of food in the military. But have you ever stopped to consider how they're developed? From their weight to their ability to be dropped from high altitutudes and withstand boiling and freezing climates, the science behind ration packs is incredibly complex. Ross Coad spent more than three decades working at the Defence Science and Technology Group in Scottsdale, Tasmania. This involved research on food packaging, food processing, the nutritional requirements of military personnel and, of course, ration packs. Listen as he uncovers the best (and worse) ration pack items, and how they were trialled in the field. 

What did you have for dinner last night? Imagine if we took your dinner plans, put it 100 metres below sea level, multiplied the mouths to feed to about 60 and took out any fresh fruit or vegetables. This was a daily reality for Commander John Goss during his career as a cook in the Navy. John's story is one of many shared in the Shrine's special exhibition Taste of Combat: The Evolution of Military Food, which uncovers often-invisible service of catering for the military and the challenges, research and innovation involved in feeding the forces. Listen as John unpacks his career and how he managed to cook in such an extreme environment.

Images of the Shrine of Remembrance today are abundant, but depictions of its construction are rare treasures. In this episode of Shrine Stories, Collections Coordinator Toby Miller delves into Alexander Colquhoun's painting of the Shrine being built, uncovering its artistic significance and the personal grief woven into its story.

Have you ever wondered how mail was received by soldiers on the front line? In this festive edition of Shrine Stories, Exhibitions Coordinator Katrina Nicolson uncovers a unique Christmas message and unpacks just how complex it was to coordinate wartime post.   

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating history of the Shrine's Ray of Light. This feature was meticulously calculated so at 11am on November 11, a beam of sunlight would shine through a hole in the Shrine's roof and illuminate the word 'love' etched into the Stone of Remembrance. However, the introduction of daylight savings in 1971 threw a spanner in the works, causing the light to hit the stone an hour late. Join us as we explore how Frank Johnston, a surveyor and RMIT lecturer, worked on a solution to this problem and has continued to keep the light shining 50 years on. 

Uncover a story of determination and ingenuity as Shrine curator Neil Sharkey reveals the story behind these aluminium false teeth. With links to Ambon, this item tells an important story about the conditions that prisoners of war endured and the struggle to survive. 

At the height of the Holocaust, twenty-five young inmates of the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp - mainly Jewish women and girls - were selected to design, cut, and sew beautiful fashions for elite Nazi women in a dedicated salon. It was work that they hoped would spare them from the gas chambers. Drawing on diverse sources including interviews with the last surviving seamstress, The Dressmakers of Auschwitz follows the fates of these brave women. In this captivating podcast recorded live at the Shrine, author and historian Lucy Adlington joined us virtually in conversation with the Melbourne Holocaust Museum's Dr Breann Fallon. Lucy refers to some pieces of clothing in this podcast. To view images of these belongings, go to https://www.shrine.org.au/live-shrine-dressmakers-auschwitz.  This program was presented in partnership with the Melbourne Holocaust Museum and Melbourne Jewish Book Week. To attend one of our events in-person, head to shrine.org.au

In this episode of Shrine Stories, we uncover the story behind a toy rabbit on display in the galleries.  Listen as Shrine Education Officer Peter Luby uncovers its link to the fall of Singapore and the mystery behind its owner.  Music On this Day - Richard Smithson 

A century ago, a public design competition resulted in the grand architecture of the Shrine of Remembrance. For 90 years it has stood as an iconic sentinal in Melbourne's architecture, so it's hard to imagine anything else in its place... In this series, you'll uncover the designs that could have been Victoria's War Memorial and the architects behind them.  In this episode, Dr Katti Williams shares the story of the architects behind the Shrine, Philip Hudson and James Wardrop, and how their military service impacted their thinking for the memorial. 

A century ago, a public design competition resulted in the grand architecture of the Shrine of Remembrance. For 90 years it has stood as an iconic sentinal in Melbourne's architecture, so it's hard to imagine anything else in its place... In this series, you'll uncover the designs that could have been Victoria's War Memorial and the architects behind them.  Listen as Dr Katti Williams unpacks the second-placed design by William Lucas, and the controversy that followed when he wasn't crowned the winner. 

A century ago, a public design competition resulted in the grand architecture of the Shrine of Remembrance. For 90 years it has stood as an iconic sentinal in Melbourne's architecture, so it's hard to imagine anything else in its place... In this series, you'll uncover the designs that could have been Victoria's War Memorial and the architects behind them.  Listen as Professor Julie Willis explores the proposals of third-placed architect Donald Turner, and the fifth-placed design by Arthur Stephenson and Percy Meldrum.     

Recorded live at the Shrine, listen as Dave Sabben MG unpacks his book Mentions in Despatches, which is made up of hundreds of letters that he sent home to family during his service in Vietnam. Hosted by Peter Meehan OAM, this conversation will give you an unrivalled account of what life was like for a frontline soldier in a war without front lines. To see what's on at the Shrine, head to shrine.org.au/whats-on-at-the-shrine Music: Right on Time, Adi Goldstein 

A century ago, a public design competition resulted in the grand architecture of the Shrine of Remembrance. For 90 years it has stood as an iconic sentinal in Melbourne's architecture, so it's hard to imagine anything else in its place... In this series, you'll uncover the designs that could have been Victoria's War Memorial and the architects behind them.  Listen as Professor Philip Goad uncovers the plans of fourth-placed architects Roy Lippincott and Edward Billson, along with those of one of the sixth-placed architects, Harold Desbrowe-Annear. 

Have you ever paid attention to the Shrine's roof? If not, now's your time! In this episode of Shrine Stories, you'll hear about a big change that was made to the roof in the '60s and why it was needed.  Listen as the Shrine's Education and Volunteer Manager Laura Carroll uncovers a story that's been hidden in plain sight.  Music On this Day - Richard Smithson   

The Victoria Cross is the highest award for acts of bravery during wartime, and to date, only 101 Australians have been presented with this prestigious medal. One of them is Captain Robert Grieve, whose medal is on display in the Shrine Galleries. Join us as Philip Powell unpacks the story behind Grieve's VC, his unlikely meeting with the Queen and how the medal survived a large fire. Music: Across the Line, Lone Canyon 

Over the course of his life, Tim Fischer wore many hats: deputy Prime Minister, politician, diplomat, farmer, chairman, patron and advocate for many causes. But one that often goes under the radar is that of a Second Lieutenant in the Australian Army. In this episode, author Peter Rees unpacks Tim's military service and how it impacted his life as a politician.  Music: 'I've Been There' by Alsever Lake 

How does a window go from being boxed up in a shed to on display at the Shrine?  In this episode of Shrine Stories, you'll learn the story of the John Charlton Memorial Window, and it's rather tumultuous journey over the last century.  Listen as art historian and author Dr Bronwyn Hughes OAM unpacks the window's history, significance and journey to the Shrine.  Music:  Across the Line - Lone Canyon  Special thanks to the generous support of The Copland Foundation towards the design and installation of the window

Kat Rae is an artist and veteran of the Australian Army who has transformed her experiences with Defence into striking art.  In this episode of Shrine Stories, we learn about the inspiration, process and message behind Kat's series of reduction linocut prints that depict the mountains of Afghanistan.  To follow Kat's work, head to katrae.net Content Warning: This episode discusses themes of mental health and suicide that may cause distress. If you need support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For a full list of support services, head to shrine.org.au/wellbeing-resources. Music: Across the Line, Lone Canyon 

Artist Ian Alderman spent seven years photographing the Belgian army's bomb disposal team as they recovered ammunition from land that was once the battlefields of Passchendaele. Once a shell was identified, he had just two minutes to capture the moment before the team moved on to their next call.  This intricate work culminated in Recovering the Past—a unique photographic exhibition that connects these Belgian men with men of the Australian Imperial Force who fought during the First World War. The two groups are united through the art of photomontage, which results in a fascinating reflection on the enduring repercussions of human conflict. Listen as Ian unpacks Recovering the Past, including how he combined 100-year-old photographs with modern ones, and what he hopes people take away from his exhibition. 

The Great Escape has gone down in history as one of the most crafty, yet ultimately tragic, escapes from a prisoner of war camp (listen to our other episode, 'Shrine Stories: The Great Escape', to hear the full story!). But what happened in the camp after the escape? Were the remaining planned escapees punished? And how did the men cope with the news that 50 of their own had been killed? Flight Lieutenant James Anthony Cathcart 'Tony' Gordon was 180th in line to escape, and his son Drew Gordon joins us for this episode to share his father's story, and what life was like after the Great Escape in Stalag Luft III.  Music:  Across the Line - Lone Canyon    

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects on our gallery floor. In this episode, we explore the story behind a Norwegian language certificate that sheds light on the lengths some prisoners of war went to to escape captivity during the Second World War. The certificate belonged to Squadron Leader James Catanach, and for fans of the movie ‘The Great Escape', this episode is sure to interest you. Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects on our gallery floor. Just before Anzac Day in 1971, Melburnians woke to the news that the Shrine had been graffitied. Officials were understandably furious, but the identities of those involved remained a mystery. Shrine curator Kate Spinks-Colas joins us on this episode to unpack what happened, and why.  Music:  Across the Line - Lone Canyon Image: Reproduced courtesy State Library Victoria 

Whether you're a history lover or someone looking to learn more about Australia's wartime history, this podcast is for you. 

Bep-Rie Gomperts was two years old when the war started in the Netherlands. It soon became clear that she and her family needed to go into hiding for their safety.  Bep spent the next several years moving from family to family and was seperated from her mother just shy of her sixth birthday.  Listen as Bep recalls her childhood with several different families and what life was like amid the uncertainty.   Music: If I Were You, Alsever Lake

Silke Hesse was among more than 12,000 people who, at the peak of Second World War, were held in internment camps across Australia. She was almost six years old when she first stepped foot in Tatura internment camp.  Listen as she shares her story experiences of internment. Music: If I Were You, Alsever Lake

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects on our gallery floor. In this episode, we explore a poster on display in the Vietnam War section of our Galleries. The poster was originally made and distributed in the United States as a protest piece. However, the one hanging at the Shrine has been re-designed and adopts a whole different meaning despite its similarities to the original. Join the Shrine's Collections coordinator Toby Miller as he unpacks this story.  Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon

Garry Fabian was just eight years old when he and his parents were interned at Theresienstadt - a ghetto, concentration camp and transit camp used by Nazi Germany to house Jews from across Eastern Europe.  Of the 15,000 children who went through the camp, only 150 survived.  Listen as Garry shares his story and reflections on his childhood.   Music: If I Were You, Alsever Lake

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects on our gallery floor. In this episode, we get festive by exploring two Christmas tins that were sent to soldiers in the Boer War and the First World War.  Join Exhibitions and Grants Coordinator at the Shrine Katrina Nicolson as she uncovers the contents of these boxes and how they were sent to the troops.  Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon

Leading Aircraftman Vern Roberts was a fitter with No. 24 Squadron RAAF and was posted to Morotai during the Second World War.  On the 9th of September, 1945, Vern witnessed the Australian commander-in-chief Field Marshal Thomas Blamey accept the formal surrender of the 2nd Japanese Army.  Now 99, Vern has an impeccable memory and shares with Shrine curator Neil Sharkey his memories of service and life at Morotai. Music: Kevin Grahams, Together

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects in the Shrine's Galleries. In this episode, award-winning historian, storyteller and biographer Ross McMullin shares the story of Australia's first official war artist, William Henry Dyson. Will Dyson created hundreds of drawings of Australia's soldiers at the Western Front, and managed to capture something no other artist could. Ross references several of Dyson's paintings and lithographs, which can be viewed here. This episode also discusses the below artwork, Welcome back to the Somme, in detail. 

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects on our gallery floor. In this episode, we look at the craft of beaded snakes. These intricate objects were among the keepsakes made by Ottoman prisoners of war during, and directly after the First World War.   Listen as Shrine Exhibitions and Collections Officer at the Shrine Tessa Occhino reveals how these snakes were made, and why.  Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon

To view a video version of the talk, click here.  Young Australian teacher Bruce Dowding arrived in Paris in 1938, planning only to improve his understanding of French language and culture. After the war broke out, Dowding helped exfiltrate hundreds of Allied servicemen from occupied France. He eventually paid the ultimate price and was beheaded by the Nazis just after his 29th birthday in 1943. His story is told in the book Secret Agent, Unsung Hero, written by Bruce's nephew, prominent Australian lawyer and former Western Australian Premier Peter Dowding and historian Ken Spillman. This podcast was recorded live at the Secret Agent, Unsung Hero book talk at the Shrine of Remembrance.  Music: Maturity by Solitude

Warning: This podcast contains themes that may be distressing for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.  The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects in the Galleries. In this episode, Major David Bergman explains his role in the recovery efforts following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Major Bergman was one of only five Australian Defence Force personnel embedded with the NYPD and other units who worked in the months after the attacks.  Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon    

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects on our gallery floor. In this episode, we delve into the story of Flight Sergeant Keith Meggs. Keith had a passion for aviation from an early age and in December 1950, he arrived in Korea to serve as a fighter pilot. Over the course of his service, he was involved in two very close calls. Listen as Shrine Curator Neil Sharkey uncovers these stories and the peculiar way Keith got his hands on an American survival vest.  Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon 

The Shrine Stories podcast takes you on a deep dive behind the objects on our gallery floor.   In this episode, we uncover the story behind the song, Dream of Australia, which plays in our galleries. Petty Officer Ted McHaffie wrote it in 1936 during a particularly lonesome and frustrating time in his service.   Tragically, five years later, Ted was one of the 645 Australian soldiers killed when HMAS Sydney II was sunk by a German raider, and so the song was never recorded.   That was until Ted's nephew, Dr Robert Hoskin, decided it was time that this tune had an audience. Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon   

  This podcast was recorded during the 2023 Midsumma Festival and explores stories of LGBTQ+ service.  Chaired by Midsumma Chief Executive Karen Bryant, listen as current and ex-service members share their experiences in the ADF.  Content warning: Parental guidance is recommended: this audio program contains adult themes and concepts and occasional coarse language. Support: If this program raises any issues for you, feel free to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Qlife on 1800 184 527. Or please scroll down for additional support services. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and not necessarily the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. Speakers: Midsumma Chief Executive Karen Bryant, Yvonne Sillett, Felix, DEFGLIS Vice President Flight Lieutenant Nathan Howarth, Professor Noah Riseman, Defending with Pride curator Kate Spinks-Colas. Recording: McLean Sound Music: Across the Line - Lone Canyon  Support: If this podcast raises any issues for you, support is available from the following services: QLife Australia's first nationally-oriented counselling and referral service for LGBTI people. Phone: 1800 184 527 Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service provides policy and community information to gay, lesbian and bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-binary serving and ex-serving members of Defence and their families. Discharged LGBTI Veterans' Association (DVLA) A support and advocacy association for Australian Defence Force personnel, their family and their friends who were adversely impacted by Defence's historic anti-LGBTI policies. Phone 0400 124 213. Thorne Harbour Health provides professional, affordable counselling for members of LGBTIQ+ communities and individuals or couples who are affected by or at risk of HIV. Open Arms Free and confidential, 24/7 national counselling service for Australian veterans and their families, provided through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). Phone: 1800 011 046 Lifeline Suicide and crisis support. Phone: 13 11 14    

Entertainers have performed in war and peacekeeping zones for decades, but what does it take to get them over there? And what happens if things don't go according to plan?  In this podcast, Warrant Officer Class 1 Mark Langley shares a peek behind the curtain of a Forces Entertainment concert from recruiting to the curtain call. Listen as he unpacks stories of escorting comedians, musicians and performers to gigs all over the world.  Image: Cold Chisel's Ian Moss with WO1 Mark Langley in East Timor. Music: Sylvester Subconscious Cast Of Characters Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance.

Australian entertainers have performed for troops in war zones and peacekeeping operations since the Vietnam War. Their talent and celebrity have lifted spirits and brought a slice of home to service personnel abroad. In this podcast, hear first-hand the trials and tribulations of entertaining on the front line with host Merrick Watts in conversation with Anthony ‘Lehmo' Lehmann, Nick Cody and Ami Williamson. This podcast was recorded live at the Shrine in November 2022 to mark the opening of Tours De Force: Entertainers on the Front Line. Listen to part two here. Content warning: This podcast is not suitable for children. It contains adult themes and occasional coarse language. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. Audio recording: McLean Sound Audio mastering: Kris Keogh Music: Explorations by Reveille Special thanks  To all the comedians and performers for their time and generosity.  For more information on the exhibition, click here.   We embrace the diversity of our community and acknowledge the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we honour Australian Defence Force service and sacrifice. We pay our respects to Elders, past and present.  

Australian entertainers have performed for troops in war zones and peacekeeping operations since the Vietnam War. Their talent and celebrity have lifted spirits and brought a slice of home to service personnel abroad. In this podcast, hear first-hand the trials and tribulations of entertaining on the front line with host Merrick Watts in conversation with Tom Gleeson, Charlie Pickering, Little Pattie and Normie Rowe.  This podcast was recorded live at the Shrine in November 2022 to mark the opening of Tours De Force: Entertainers on the Front Line. Listen to part one here. Content warning: This podcast is not suitable for children. It contains adult themes and occasional coarse language. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. Audio recording: McLean Sound Audio mastering: Kris Keogh Music: Explorations by Reveille Special thanks  To all the comedians and performers for their time and generosity.  For more information on the exhibition, click here.  We embrace the diversity of our community and acknowledge the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we honour Australian Defence Force service and sacrifice. We pay our respects to Elders, past and present.    

Corporal Ronald Schultz has been in the Air Force for more than two decades, spanning a variety of roles and serving both in Australia and overseas. He now works in Indigenous recruiting, helping other First Nations people across Australia enter the Defence Force. In this podcast, guest host and acclaimed Gunditjmara actor Tom Molyneux yarns with Ron about his entry into the defence force, the highlights of his service and his hopes for the future of First Peoples in the ADF.  Credits: Speaker: Corporal Ronald Schultz Interviewer: Tom Molyneux Editor: Laura Thomas Music: Title: Emu and Brolga Composer: James Henry Performed by: Air Force Band Wind Quintet This song was debuted at the Shrine of Remembrance for the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service. Audio Mastering: Kris Keogh Special thanks: Megan Spencer, for her keen ear and feedback on this podcast. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. Support: If this interview raises any issues for you, please contact: Lifeline on 13 11 14 Open Arms (formerly VVCS) - Veterans & Families Counselling on 1800 011 046 or visit their website. 13 YARN, Australia's first, 24/7, national, Indigenous-led Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support line. Phone 13 92 76, or visit their website

Phil Neil, a former Leading Aircraftman with the RAAF, was one of the five members of the Gay Ex-Services Association (GESA) who tried to unsuccessfully lay a wreath at the Shrine of Remembrance on ANZAC Day in 1982. GESA formed after inflammatory and homophobic comments were made in the media about gay service people by then RSL president, Bruce Ruxton. On a cold and rainy 25th of April, 1982, Phil Neil, Mike Jarmyn, Terry Yates and two other gay ex-servicemen walked the steps of the Shrine to try and lay a wreath in the name of their “fallen gay and lesbian brothers and sisters”, who had always been a part of the Australian defence forces. On that day, they were turned away. After the passing in 2018 of GESA founding member Max Campbell, a former RAAF Warrant Officer, it was thought that there were no surviving members of the association. As luck would have it, Phil Neil was found alive and well living in regional Victoria during the making of ‘The Power of the Wreath', one of the podcast episodes that accompanies the Shrine's groundbreaking new exhibition, Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service (August 2022 – July 2023). In our age of open service, Phil is a pioneer for the LGBTIQ+ ADF members and community of today. As you'll hear, he's waited a long time to tell his story for the first time. In this extended interview, he sheds more light on the 1982 wreath-laying incident, his motives for being part of it and much more. It's an inspiring story of courage and compassion. Phil Neil was interviewed by award-winning podcast maker, Megan Spencer. You can also hear him speak in the special two-part podcast she made for the Shrine, Defending with Pride: Voices – The Power of the Wreath. Credits  This extended interview with Phil Neil, a former Leading Aircraftman with the RAAF, is part of the podcast series Defending with Pride: Voices. The audio series accompanies the Shrine's exhibition, Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service (August 2022 – July 2023) Parental guidance recommended: This audio program contains adult themes, mild coarse language and sexual references. If this program raises any issues for you, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For additional support services, see also the list below. Wreath-laying at the Shrine: We welcome all members of our community to lay wreaths or other floral offerings at any of the many memorials at the Shrine. The Shrine hosts more than 150 official commemorative services each year to remember the service of Australian men and women, particularly Victorians, and we welcome our community to attend and participate. To find out more about remembrance services, or to apply to hold your own, visit this link.  Speakers: Phil Neil (former Leading Aircraftman, RAAF) Interviewer/Producer/Sound: Megan Spencer  Music: Original “Kissed” music: Philip Brophy Special thanks: To former Phil Neil for generously sharing his insights and lived experience for this podcast and to Nick Henderson from the Australian Queer Archives. Thank you also to the Shrine team: Sue Burgess, Laura Thomas and Kate Spinks, curator of Defending with Pride. Support: If this podcast raises any issues for you, support is available from the following services: QLife Australia's first nationally-oriented counselling and referral service for LGBTI people. Phone: 1800 184 527 Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service provides policy and community information to gay, lesbian and bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-binary serving and ex-serving members of Defence and their families. Discharged LGBTI Veterans' Association (DVLA) A support and advocacy association for Australian Defence Force personnel, their family and their friends who were adversely impacted by Defence's historic anti-LGBTI policies. Phone 0400 124 213. Open Arms Free and confidential, 24/7 national counselling service for Australian veterans and their families, provided through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). Phone: 1800 011 046 Lifeline  Suicide and crisis support. Phone: 13 11 14 Read: Pride in Defence: The Australian Military and LGBTI Service since 1945 (2020), Melbourne University Press and Serving in Silence? Australian LGBT servicemen and women(2018), New South Books.  Ben Winsor's ‘The Secret History of Gay Diggers' essay for SBS here    Visit: Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service exhibition at the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne, August 2022 until July 2023. Victorian Pride Centre  Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. Episode duration: 36:09

When the Taliban entered Kabul on the evening of 15 August 2021, Western troops and embassy staff scrambled to flee a country of which its government had lost control. To the world, Kabul in August looked like Saigon in 1975.  Andrew Quilty was one of a handful of Western journalists who stayed as the city fell. His book, August in Kabul: America's last days in Afghanistan is a first-hand account of those dramatic final days told through the eyes of Afghans whose lives have been turned upside down.   In September 2022, Andrew sat down in front of a live audience at the Shrine of Remembrance to discuss his book with journalist Tracey Curro. Listen as Andrew reveals what life was like in Kabul and shares stories from the weeks and months after it fell. 

Bridget Clinch is a change maker. A former captain in the Australian Army, in 2010 she challenged the Australian Defence Force over its ban on transgender service - and won. It was a hard-fought battle that paved the way for other transgender ADF service members to be able transition and to continue serving after her. High profile former Lieutenant Colonel and Group Captain Cate McGregor, was one of them. Born in Sydney in 1979, Bridget Clinch's military story began in Victoria as an Army cadet in the mid-90s, at the boys' secondary college, Melbourne High School. She joined the Army in 1999, and went into officer training at Royal Military College Duntroon. Bridget spent 15 years serving in the Australian Army and had a busy infantry career - in her words, she “crammed a lot in”, especially in her 20s. A combat leader, she deployed to East Timor twice on peacekeeping missions, first in 2003 then in 2008, receiving medals for her service. Amongst it all she commanded platoons, abseiled down mountains, did commando training – and that's just for starters. Bridget has a remarkable story to tell – not only about being the person who made the ADF repeal its ban on transgender service in 2010, but also about service life itself and what it means to look after and defend your country. “I wanted to transition, be true to myself and keep serving”, she said in a 2017 Guardian article. The protracted process with the ADF took “a huge personal toll” on Bridget. In 2013, she made the difficult decision to discharge from the ADF. Bridget lost her career and the Army lost a dedicated career soldier. Now based in Brisbane, Bridget Clinch describes herself as a “parent, veteran, nerd, writer, speaker and occasional political candidate”. She's a passionate speaker with a genuine sense of social justice, a super-informed worldview and a progressive thinker. This is her story. Defending with Pride: Voices is a podcast produced for the Shrine of Remembrance to accompany the exhibition Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service. Content warning: Parental guidance is recommended: this audio program contains adult themes and concepts. Support: If this program raises any issues for you, feel free to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Qlife on 1800 184 527. Or scroll down for additional support services. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. Speaker: Bridget Clinch (former captain, Australian Army) Huge thanks to Bridget Clinch for generously sharing her wisdom, candour, insights and lived experience for this project, and for her patience during the COVID period. Interviewer/Producer/Sound: Megan Spencer  Image  Walkom Photography Additional sound: “Timor-Leste audio” recorded by Teodosia “Dhesy” dos Reis, journalist and Trainer Radio Liberdade Dili. Used with kind permission. “ADF in East Timor”, Department of Defence. Used with kind permission. “Vice Regal Guard of Honour”, Shrine of Remembrance Music Original “Kissed” music: Philip Brophy '62,000 Bells For 62,000 Australian Dead', recorded at the ANU School of Music by Veronica Bailey, Thomas Laue and Chris Latham (in Movement 12: ‘Lux Aeterna – In Paradisum'). From The Diggers' Requiem, co-commissioned by Australian War Memorial and the Australian Government Department of Veterans' Affairs. The concert was performed in Amiens, France, on April 23, 2018, by Orchestre de Picardie and the Jena Philharmonic and with Australian soloists, conducted by Chris Latham. Listen here. Audio mastering: Kris Keogh Special thanks: Professor Noah Riseman, Wendy Love, Kon Velanis and Sean Gallagher at Defence Digital Media and Chris Latham. Thank you: Emma Masters, Sean Burton and the Shrine team: Tessa Occhino, Laura Thomas, Sue Burgess and Kate Spinks, curator of Defending with Pride exhibition. Support: If this podcast raises any issues for you, support is available from the following services: QLife Australia's first nationally-oriented counselling and referral service for LGBTI people. Phone: 1800 184 527 Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service  Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service provides policy and community information to gay, lesbian and bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-binary serving and ex-serving members of Defence and their families. Discharged LGBTI Veterans' Association (DVLA) A support and advocacy association for Australian Defence Force personnel, their family and their friends who were adversely impacted by Defence's historic anti-LGBTI policies. Phone 0400 124 213. Thorne Harbour HealthProvides professional, affordable counselling for members of LGBTIQ+ communities and individuals or couples who are affected by or at risk of HIV. Open Arms Free and confidential, 24/7 national counselling service for Australian veterans and their families, provided through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). Phone: 1800 011 046  Lifeline Suicide and crisis support. Phone: 13 11 14 Watch: Women's Air Force History documentary series by Jessica Ferrari Read: Serving in Silence: Australian LBGT Servicemen and women by Noah Riseman, Shirlene Robnson & Graham Willett published by New South. Pride in Defence: The Australian Military and LGBTI Service since 1945 (2020), Melbourne University Press  Visit: Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service exhibition at the Shrine of Remembrance, open from August 2022 until August 2023. Episode duration: 57:53

The Beaufort Bomber was colloquially known as the workhorse of the RAAF during World War Two and played a key role in Australia's defence. In this podcast, convenor of the Beaufort Squadrons Reunion Tony Clark unpacks the story behind the plane. Hear why they were built on home soil, how women played a pivotal part in the construction and what happened when the plane was retired. Voiceover: Keith Tucker and John Lloyd-Fillingham conducted interviews with many of the Beaufort aircrew veterans and former DAP factory workers at the 2014 Beaufort Squadrons Association reunion. The sentiments and words these individuals shared about their experiences were incorporated into an audiovisual on display at the Shrine of Remembrance. The audio from this project can be heard throughout the podcast.  Music: Some Smoke by National Promenade Band Fading Light by Josh Lim  Image: Courtesy of the Australian War Memorial 

The story of defence couple, Carole Popham and Christina Dennis, started over 50 years ago in the Women's Royal Australian Air Force. Both born in the '40s, without knowing it they grew up within 350kms of each other in northern Queensland: Carole in Townsville and Christina in Cairns. Coming of age in 1960s Australia - a time of limited work and education opportunities for women - in 1963 and '64 respectively, Carole and Christina each jumped at the chance to join up and serve their country. The WRAAF offered the women a chance to travel and see Australia, to meet other people from all walks of life and the opportunity to work in an interesting and challenging environment that home just couldn't offer. After meeting in the service 1964, and developing a romantic relationship at the end of 1967, Carole and Christina's Air Force careers were cut short by the prevailing conservative morals and military regulations of the day. To avoid persecution from within, in late 1968 Carole and Christina decided to out their relationship to their WRAAF officer and voluntarily discharge from the Air Force. Excelling in their respective musterings, it was not an easy decision to make and was a huge sacrifice. The ban on open service for LGB members in Australia's military would endure for another three long decades, finally overturned by the Commonwealth government in 1992. Carole and Christina have been together for 53 years, living in the same Melbourne suburb for almost as long. Much loved in their local community, their story is inspiring, funny, moving and courageous. They are unassuming trailblazers for today's queer ADF community. Defending with Pride: Voices is a podcast produced for the Shrine of Remembrance to accompany the exhibition Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service. Content warning: Parental guidance is recommended: this audio program contains adult themes and concepts. Support: If this program raises any issues for you, feel free to call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Qlife on 1800 184 527. Or scroll down for additional support services. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. CREDITS Speakers: Christina Dennis (WRAAF) Carole Popham (WRAAF) Huge thanks to Christina and Carole for generously sharing their story, insights and perspectives; for their patience during the pandemic and for their hospitality. Interviewer/Producer/Sound: Megan Spencer  Archival audio: ‘New Careers: Women of the RAAF' 1958, (excerpts), courtesy of Cinesound Movietone Productions and the National Film and Sound Archive. Used with kind permission. Music: Emu and Brolga, commissioned by the Royal Australian Air Force Band. An original composition by Gamilaraay Yuwaalaraay man James Henry, performed by the Air Force Band Wind Quintet. Ensemble: Flight Sergeant Adam Schlemitz - Bassoon Corporal Laila Engle - Flute Corporal Robert Scott - Clarinet Leading Aircraftman Salvador Blasco Celda - Oboe Aircraftman Aidan Gabriels - French horn Original ‘Kissed' music: Philip Brophy Audio mastering: Kris Keogh Special thanks: Professor Noah Riseman; Glenn Eley at Cinesound Movietone Productions; Siobhan Dee at NFSA and Jessica Ferrari at Memento Media. Flight Sergeant Dr. Ralph Whiteoak, RAAF Band, composer James Henry (Gamilaraay Yuwaalaraay) and the Royal Australian Air Force Wind Quintet. Thank you to the Shrine team: Sue Burgess, Laura Thomas and Kate Spinks, curator of the Defending with Pride exhibition. Support: If this podcast raises any issues for you, support is available from the following services: QLife Australia's first nationally-oriented counselling and referral service for LGBTI people. Phone: 1800 184 527 Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service  Defence Gay and Lesbian Information Service provides policy and community information to gay, lesbian and bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-binary serving and ex-serving members of Defence and their families. Discharged LGBTI Veterans' Association (DVLA) A support and advocacy association for Australian Defence Force personnel, their family and their friends who were adversely impacted by Defence's historic anti-LGBTI policies. Phone 0400 124 213. Thorne Harbour HealthProvides professional, affordable counselling for members of LGBTIQ+ communities and individuals or couples who are affected by or at risk of HIV. Open Arms Free and confidential, 24/7 national counselling service for Australian veterans and their families, provided through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). Phone: 1800 011 046  Lifeline Suicide and crisis support. Phone: 13 11 14 Watch: Women's Air Force History documentary series by Jessica Ferrari Read: Serving in Silence: Australian LBGT Servicemen and women by Noah Riseman, Shirlene Robnson & Graham Willett published by New South. Visit: Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service exhibition at the Shrine of Remembrance, open from August 2022 until August 2023. Episode duration: 57:15    

This podcast is part of a powerful two-part series that explores the history of LGBTIQ+ military service in Australia, produced by award-winning podcast maker, Megan Spencer. It begins in 1982 with the unsuccessful attempt of five gay ex-servicemen to lay a wreath at the Shrine of Remembrance on Anzac Day, to honour their “fallen gay and lesbian brothers and sisters”. Forty years later, on ANZAC Day 2022, the story comes full circle with the annual Rainbow Wreath-laying service by DEFGLIS uniformed members and allies, in the Shrine's hallowed Sanctuary. In between these two landmark moments, the story of LGBTIQ+ service unfolds through the voices and lived experience of current and former ADF service members, pre- and post- the 1992 ban on “homosexual service” in Australia's military. The Power of the Wreath podcast accompanies the Shrine's new exhibition, Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service, on from August 1st 2022 - August 2023. Content warning: Parental guidance recommended: this audio program contains adult themes, mild coarse language and sexual references. It also contains references to suicide. If you need support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. A comprehensive list of support services is also included below. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Shrine of Remembrance. Credits Speakers: Squadron Leader Nathan White Professor Noah Riseman Stuart Martin (former Flight Lieutenant) Max Campbell (former Warrant Officer, dec.) Flight Lieutenant Lachlan Saunders Phil Neil (former Leading Aircraftman) Group Captain Mick Janson Grateful thanks to each speaker for generously sharing their insights, research and/or lived experience for this podcast. Interviewer/Producer/Sound: Megan Spencer Feature image:  DEFGLIS members and supporters: From left: GPCAPT Mick Jansen, FLTLT Danie Bunting, FLGOFF(AAFC) Dan Morris, FLTLT Brad Milsteed, FLTLT Lachlan Saunders, Stuart Martin, Bron Richardson, LTCOL Kristy Hudson, Sameer Mane Archival audio: Max Campbell: oral history interview with Noah Riseman. Recorded 13 March 2015. Donated to the Australian Queer Archives used with kind permission. Additional audio: Excerpts of The Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne, ANZAC Day, 25th April 2022, recorded by the Shrine of Remembrance. Music: Didgeridoo: Bunurong man Eric Edwards. Live recording from the Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service 31st May, 2022, recorded by the Shrine of Remembrance. Used with kind permission. Original “Kissed” music: Philip Brophy Selected tracks from The Diggers' Requiem: arranged, curated and conducted by Christopher Latham (musical artist in residence at the Australian War Memorial) with soloists. Used with kind permission. '62,000 Bells For 62,000 Australian Dead', recorded at the ANU School of Music by Veronica Bailey, Thomas Laue and Chris Latham (in Movement 12: ‘Lux Aeterna – In Paradisum'). ‘Dead March from Saul', for accordion, choir, soloists & orchestra. Composer: GF Handel (in Movement 1: ‘Requiem Aeternum / Rest Eternal'). ‘Lament For The Pipers Who Fell In The Great War'. Composer: Pipe Major John Grant  (in Movement 12: ‘Lux Aeterna – In Paradisum'). The Diggers' Requiem was co-commissioned by Australian War Memorial and the Australian Government Department of Veterans' Affairs. The concert performed in Amiens, France, on April 23, 2018, by Orchestre de Picardie and the Jena Philharmonic and with Australian soloists, conducted by Chris Latham. Listen here.  Audio mastering: Kris Keogh Special thanks: Professor Noah Riseman; Nick Henderson, Ange Bailey and Graham Willett from the Australian Queer Archives. Bunurong man Eric Edwards for sharing his didgeridoo music in this program. Read more about his grandfather Uncle Henry “Harry” Thorpe (Brabuwooloong), who fought in WWI and was awarded a Military Medal. Chris Latham and The Flowers of Peace project, and the musicians from The Diggers' Requiem. Thank you: Department of Defence and Defence Media; Nathan White, Rachael Cosgrove and DEFGLIS; the Shrine team: Sue Burgess, Laura Thomas and Kate Spinks, curator of Defending with Pride. See the Defending with Pride: Stories of LGBTQ+ service exhibition now at the Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne, until August 2023. Wreath-laying at the Shrine: We welcome all members of our community to lay wreaths or other floral offerings at any of the many memorials at the Shrine. The Shrine hosts more than 150 official commemorative services each year to remember the service of Australian men and women, particularly Victorians, and we welcome our community to attend and participate. To find out more about remembrance services, or to apply to hold your own, visit this link.  Support: If this podcast raises any issues for you, support is available from the following services: QLife Australia's first nationally-oriented counselling and referral service for LGBTI people. Phone: 1800 184 527 Defence Gay and Lesbian Information ServiceDefence Gay and Lesbian Information Service provides policy and community information to gay, lesbian and bisexual, transgender, intersex and non-binary serving and ex-serving members of Defence and their families. Discharged LGBTI Veterans' Association (DVLA) A support and advocacy association for Australian Defence Force personnel, their family and their friends who were adversely impacted by Defence's historic anti-LGBTI policies. Phone 0400 124 213. Thorne Harbour HealthProvides professional, affordable counselling for members of LGBTIQ+ communities and individuals or couples who are affected by or at risk of HIV. Open Arms Free and confidential, 24/7 national counselling service for Australian veterans and their families, provided through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA). Phone: 1800 011 046  Lifeline Suicide and crisis support. Phone: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue Free, immediate, short-term counselling advice and referral. Phone: 1300 224 636  Suicide Call Back Service 24-hour counselling service for suicide prevention and mental health. Phone: 1300 659 467  Read: Pride in Defence: The Australian Military and LGBTI Service since 1945 (2020), Melbourne University Press and Serving in Silence? Australian LGBT servicemen and women (2018), New South Books.  Curator Kate Spinks' article , ‘Experiences of LGBTQI+ Personnel'  The Shrine's Media Release: “40th anniversary wreath-laying marks different era for LGBTIQ service veterans and personnel on ANZAC Day”  Noah Riseman's essays on LGBTI service for The Conversation, here and here  Shirlene Robinson's essay on LGBTI service for The Conversation here  Ben Winsor's ‘The Secret History of Gay Diggers' essay for SBS here  Visit: Victorian Pride Centre  Episode duration: 52:37