Memorial for Forgotten Australians unveiled in Tasmania
15 December 2025
On 19 November 2025, Tolosa Park in Glenorchy, Tasmania, became the site of a new memorial, unveiled in honour of the anniversary of the National Apology to Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants. The apology acknowledged the profound harm suffered by children placed in institutional care, including neglect, abuse, and the lifelong impact of being denied love, family, and belonging.
The memorial, designed by Forgotten Australians in partnership with Glenorchy City Council, occupies a site chosen with care, aligned with the tower of Dominic College, once the location of Boys’ Town, linking the space directly to the history of institutional care in the area. The event brought together community members, advocates, supporters, and government representatives to celebrate a milestone in the long campaign for a meaningful place of reflection.
Set in peaceful bushland, the ceremony was both reflective and uplifting. Cody, a Palawa man, delivered a Welcome to Country, and two Forgotten Australians shared powerful stories that deeply moved the crowd. Forgotten Australians from the north of the state also travelled to attend, with their practitioner offering heartfelt words on their behalf, leading into the unveiling of the memorial.
Guests were invited to wear white as a show of solidarity with Forgotten Australians, a simple but powerful gesture that speaks to making their stories visible and honouring those who fought for recognition after years of silence.
Special thanks to the Glenorchy City Council whose thoughtful support added to a genuine sense of community throughout the gathering and contributed to the event’s warm and respectful atmosphere. Despite threatening weather, the rain held off, allowing the gathering to celebrate resilience, remember the past, and reflect in a space now dedicated to recognition and healing.
Alliance for Forgotten Australians (AFA) Board member Dave Henderson was one of the Forgotten Australians involved in establishing the memorial and a plaque on the seat states: ‘David Henderson, In honour of a passionate advocate whose voice changed how Forgotten Australians are remembered’.
