A powerful Yorke Peninsula tribute honouring every Australian unit – one step at a time.
It’s been called the forgotten war – but not on the Yorke Peninsula with a powerful new memorial about to change the national conversation.
Opening this August, the Vietnam War Memorial Walk will follow the scenic Walk The Yorke trail between Coobowie and Edithburgh, and feature a series of interpretive signs acknowledging every Australian unit that served in the Vietnam War. The result will be the first and only memorial of its kind in Australia.
Developed by local residents Roger Hogben and John Edwards, with backing from the Yorke Peninsula Council, the project has earned widespread support from veterans’ associations, government agencies, and community groups.
“This Memorial Walk will be a national treasure and a source of pride for our local community,” said Acting Mayor Richard Carruthers. “With its spectacular location and the unique, detailed recognition of every Australian unit involved, the Vietnam War Memorial Walk is an outstanding initiative that honours the service and sacrifice of Australians who served in Vietnam.”
To celebrate the completion of the walk, a major Official Opening will be held on Monday, 18 August 2025, a date marking 50 years since the final Australian troops left Vietnam. The event will take place at the Edithburgh Golf Course and feature a Huey helicopter flyover, a formal ceremony, and a special concert by John Schumann and the Vagabond Crew (of Redgum and I Was Only 19 fame), supported by a $10,000 grant from Veterans SA’s ANZAC Day Commemoration Fund.
“Council is extremely grateful to Veterans SA for their support,” Mr Carruthers said. “This will be an emotional and historic occasion, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from near and far to pay their respects and celebrate the service of our veterans.”
Mr Hogben added, “The amount of support we have received nationally, from veterans’ associations, the Australian War Memorial and many others, has been remarkable. We thank Veterans SA for their ongoing support and look forward to the official opening event.”
For more information or to sponsor a seat along the trail, click here
Vietnam War Memorial Walk – Official Opening
Where: Edithburgh Golf Course, corner Giles Terrace and O’Halloran Parade
When: Monday August 18, 10:30am (Vietnam Veteren’s Day)
Followed by a Luncheon at the Edithburgh Sports and Community Club
Official Opening Concert – Behind The Lines with John Schumann and the Vagabond Crew
Venue: Light Church, Edithburgh
Time: Monday August 18, 2:00pm
To book tickets: Visit SA Tix – Providing ticketing across South Australia
