For Our Country
Commissioned by the Australian War Memorial, this project involved the construction of a dedicated "For Our Country" memorial honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service personnel. This culturally significant installation was designed by artist Daniel Boyd and stands as a powerful and permanent tribute within the Memorial’s grounds.
The project centred around the construction of a semicircular pavilion, positioned within an 11-metre circular landscaped setting. At the front, a striking two-way mirrored glass wall is overlaid with thousands of circular lenses, symbolising layers of history, reflection, and perspective. Behind this facade lies an intimate gathering space enclosed by a curved wall and seating formed from black pigmented rammed earth, culminating in a central fire pit that anchors the site both physically and spiritually.
Sector
Commercial Landscape
Client
Australian War Memorial
Location
Campbell
For Our Country was completed while maintaining full pedestrian and traffic access around the site, ensuring minimal disruption to the high-profile public precinct. RAM delivered both soft and hard landscaping throughout the site, integrating the artwork into its natural surroundings with sensitivity and precision. The complexity of the installation, combined with its cultural and architectural importance, demanded close collaboration with stakeholders and attention to detail.
The memorial has received significant industry recognition, reflecting its exceptional design, cultural significance, and artistic execution. In 2020, it received the Canberra Medallion and the Cynthia Breheny Award for Small Project Architecture from the Australian Institute of Architects ACT Chapter, as well as the Nicholas Murcutt Award for Small Project Architecture at the National Awards. Additional awards include the Pamille Berg Award for Art in Architecture, the Robert Foster Award for Light in Architecture, and the Collaboration Award from The Design Files.
The result is a design-led, award-winning memorial that honours Indigenous Australians and contributes to the national narrative in a deeply meaningful way.