The following formal submission have been made public
Submitter: Albert SmithNew Southern Entrance
I am an ex-Serviceman with almost 31 years service in the RAAF. I retired from the RAAF almost twenty years ago and while I reside in Queensland I make an effort to visit the AWM every time we visit family in Canberra. It has been most interesting to see the AWM evolve and update / improve the exhibits. However, it is evident that the AWM is becoming too small for the exhibits available and necessary to explain / educate every operation that we engage in. The need for expansion seems to me to be a “no brainer”.
The new Southern Entrance proposal to my mind is an excellent example of common sense ideas linked to innovative modern building practices that in no way detract from the significance or aesthetic appeal of the AWM - in fact the changes should be a drawcard for visitors to Canberra and something of which Australia can be proud.
I fail to see how opposition voices cannot be attracted to what is proposed. Many people are opposed to change for the sake of it but offer no alternative proposal / solution.
To retain and make the original building the centrepiece needs not be questioned. The improvement to the Southern Entrance is not audacious, in fact it blends perfectly with the existing building and surrounds and will be more functional from the perspective of “audience” participation in events such as Anzac Day. To my mind, it makes the Southern Entrance to the Museum more appealing. The proposed east and west entry points at this entrance, and as portrayed in the “fly through” video, make for an inviting entryway and perhaps help to set the tone of what is to come inside the memorial. I personally look forward to this project going ahead, it helps to cement the bond between those who have given their lives in the past, (the old), with those who have made that sacrifice more recently (the new).
In light of the consultation that has taken place in the planning of these changes, I would be surprised if a Referendum didn’t give unanimous support to the project.
The new Southern Entrance proposal to my mind is an excellent example of common sense ideas linked to innovative modern building practices that in no way detract from the significance or aesthetic appeal of the AWM - in fact the changes should be a drawcard for visitors to Canberra and something of which Australia can be proud.
I fail to see how opposition voices cannot be attracted to what is proposed. Many people are opposed to change for the sake of it but offer no alternative proposal / solution.
To retain and make the original building the centrepiece needs not be questioned. The improvement to the Southern Entrance is not audacious, in fact it blends perfectly with the existing building and surrounds and will be more functional from the perspective of “audience” participation in events such as Anzac Day. To my mind, it makes the Southern Entrance to the Museum more appealing. The proposed east and west entry points at this entrance, and as portrayed in the “fly through” video, make for an inviting entryway and perhaps help to set the tone of what is to come inside the memorial. I personally look forward to this project going ahead, it helps to cement the bond between those who have given their lives in the past, (the old), with those who have made that sacrifice more recently (the new).
In light of the consultation that has taken place in the planning of these changes, I would be surprised if a Referendum didn’t give unanimous support to the project.
Anzac Hall and Glazed Link
Many of my comments re the Southern Entrance are equally applicable to the Anzac Hall and Glazed Link proposal. The AWM has to expand to be able to represent all past, present and future operations / conflicts in which Australia has been involved or continues to be involved. Lesser operations should not go unrecognised just because of a lack of space.
The design proposed appears to be an excellent blend of modern architecture which does not overshadow the existing building and blends with the surrounding landscape. It does not appear to be obtrusive or grandiose. I was impressed by the overhead view of the floor plan - it bears some resemblance to an Olympic Torch, a beacon on the Canberra landscape !
The “Fly Through” is impressive.
Clearly this expansion is going to enable more and larger exhibits to be displayed. If this alone helps to tell the story of what Australia has contributed to conflict, then it will be worthwhile. It will continue to be a place where all Australians, young and old, can pay their respects and learn about our history. I fail to understand the mindset of people who would oppose that ?
The design proposed appears to be an excellent blend of modern architecture which does not overshadow the existing building and blends with the surrounding landscape. It does not appear to be obtrusive or grandiose. I was impressed by the overhead view of the floor plan - it bears some resemblance to an Olympic Torch, a beacon on the Canberra landscape !
The “Fly Through” is impressive.
Clearly this expansion is going to enable more and larger exhibits to be displayed. If this alone helps to tell the story of what Australia has contributed to conflict, then it will be worthwhile. It will continue to be a place where all Australians, young and old, can pay their respects and learn about our history. I fail to understand the mindset of people who would oppose that ?