Cairns Sailors and Soldiers Memorial, Cairns

The Cairns Sailors and Soldiers Memorial stands tall as a poignant tribute to the brave souls who sacrificed their lives in the service of their country. This striking monument features a statue of an infantry soldier standing atop a stately clock tower, his gaze turned towards the vast expanse of the sea, forever vigilant and watchful.

Rising to an impressive height of 41 feet, the memorial once served as a functioning clock tower, a solemn reminder of the passage of time and the enduring legacy of those who gave their lives for a greater cause. For many years, it graced the intersection of Abbott and Shields Streets, an iconic landmark that resonated with the Cairns community and visitors alike.

In 1972, the Cairns Sailors and Soldiers Memorial found its new home on the Esplanade, overlooking the serene waters of the sea. Though the clock may be absent today, the monument's significance remains undiminished. Instead of the clock dials, the time is permanently painted to read 4:28 am—an unyielding tribute to the moment when ANZAC troops bravely landed at Gallipoli during World War I. This poignant detail forever etches the sacrifice of those who answered the call of duty and embarked on a journey into history.

Amidst the grandeur of the memorial, a marble plaque bears the names of the locals who fell in World War I. This hallowed list serves as a solemn roll call of the fallen, ensuring that their memory lives on and their courage is never forgotten. The names etched in marble stand as a testament to the resilience and strength of the Cairns community and a reminder of the indomitable spirit that binds them together.