War Animals MemorialPrint Page

The memorial commemorates all animals who have served our nation in times of war and peace. it recognises the sacrifices and deeds that animals have undertaken in battlefields around the world.  Senior Constable Nigel Allsopp, a current-serving police-dog handler and President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation, was a driving force behind the war-animal memorial dedication.

Animals have played a very significant role in assisting our defence forces over the years and the memorial plaque is to show support for the many dogs, horses, mules, donkeys, camels and pigeons who have bravely served Australia. The recognition of animals in war is not new as three pigeons had been awarded the Dickin medal – the equivalent of a Victoria Cross – in World War One and a British mine detection dog in Afghanistan has also received the same award.

On the 11 November 2018 the Australian War Animal Memorial Organization opened up a lovely memorial for animals at Canungra. The project was headed by Col Lee President of Canungra RSL, Councillors Virginia West and Nadia O’Carroll of the Scenic Rim Council and Nigel Allsopp President of AWAMO.

An amazing amount over 200 people turned out in this small village. Animals present included Messenger pigeons displayed in WWI wicker baskets, two beautiful Clydesdale Heavy horses, a troop of Light Horsemen from the Australian Army Veterinary Corps Troop, a donkey, RAAF Mascot dog and four dog handlers from the Federal Police and Border Force and SES Search and Rescue dogs. The largest of the war animals and always a crowd pleaser were three wonderful war camels.

Special thanks must go to all these re-enactors who give their time and money to keep the ANZAC spirit alive. No was up to WWI could have even been considered without the use of animals, we own them this recognition.

Australia official war animal memorial also completed by AWAMO is in Pozieres France and the town of Pozieres sent a wreath to Canungra. Wreath also came from the Brooks Foundation for war horses and Blue Cross both from UK.

All wreaths were laid by a VIP accompanied by either a local school student or local scout group member with the war animal poem read out by a local student.

Photos- unveiling by L to R Nadia, Co, Nigel and Virginia

Note: - poppy rug on horse was first used in France- made by more than 1000 poppies from school kids throughout Australia.

Donkey with new coat again all hand made by dozens of women’s groups.

Light horse Reps from AAVC included Indigenous and NZ Rep.
Information Supplied by Nigel Allsop, AWAMO

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Dedication