5 tall pillars at the Stromlo Memorial depicting photos of events of the 2003 Canberra Bushfires

The ACT Bushfire Memorial at Stromlo Forest Park

12 January 2023

The 2003 Canberra bushfires was a tragic event in our city’s history that claimed four lives, 500 homes and injured and displaced many people in our community. Our thoughts are with the victims and those affected by the 2003 bushfires. 

Wednesday, 18 January 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the event. Community members are invited to pay their respects to those affected and acknowledge those involved in the immediate response and recovery efforts in the following ways:

Visit the ACT Bushfire Memorial, Stromlo Forest Park throughout the day
Rosemary will be available in remembrance. For those who cannot make it on the day but would still like to reflect, the memorial is a permanent memorial site that the community can visit at any time.


For those who cannot make it on the day but would still like to reflect, the memorial is a permanent memorial site that the community can visit at any time.

Observe the 20th Anniversary of the 2003 Canberra Bushfires Commemorative Event

Date: Wednesday 18 January 2023
Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm
Location: ACT Bushfire Memorial, Stromlo Forest Park

Members of the community are welcome to stay and observe the ceremony from the grassed areas nearby. Large screens will stream the event and you are welcome to bring chairs or picnic blankets for your comfort.

Watch the live streamed event online


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