Huon Valley Council is inviting further feedback on new options for the Franklin Cenotaph, developed directly from recent community input.
Consultation so far – including a recent drop in information session and an online survey – shows strong support for keeping the cenotaph in its current location, with many people emphasising its historic and symbolic importance. While views differ, the community has been clear that retaining the cenotaph on its original site is a priority.
Community members have also suggested practical ways to address safety, access and preservation issues. Key ideas include keeping the cenotaph where it is and developing the lower-level area as a safer, better-equipped space for ANZAC services and community events.
While we value the community’s preference to keep the cenotaph in its current location, there are a couple of important issues to be considered.
In 2000, the Department of State Growth advised that ANZAC services should no longer be held at the current site due to safety and access concerns. For services to be formally endorsed or permitted in future, a safer alternative location with appropriate facilities is likely to be required.
The community should also be aware that the pine tree directly behind the Cenotaph is currently causing ongoing damage to the memorial. Sap drips are causing erosion to the statue, and tree roots are slowly destabilising the foundation from underneath. Without intervention, this may result in long-term damage to the Cenotaph.
New survey
Council has listened and is now presenting options that retain the cenotaph in place, create a new lower-level commemorative and community space, and remove this pine tree, replacing it with appropriate landscaping that would better preserve the memorial for future generations.
The second survey is now open until 5 January 2026. Community members are encouraged to complete it, whether or not they responded to the first survey. Take the survey at Council’s Engage website Franklin Cenotaph Relocation | Engage Huon Valley
For questions, please email engage@huonvalley.tas.gov.au. Staff will respond after they return in early 2026.