Newcastle Memorial Walk

Does anyone else need an excuse to get out of the house sometimes? We all need our exercise but some days I find it difficult to get up and start moving, especially recently with my mental health issues. That’s why activities like walking and hiking are my go-to exercises to get me out of bed and in the sun and fresh air! Being among nature really relaxes me, and being able to explore things along the way gives me an extra boost of serotonin! Today I’m walking somewhere with a bit of Australian history and commemorative respect, among the beautiful views of an iconic Aussie beach; The Newcastle Memorial Walk.

The Newcastle Memorial Walk is a coastal walk to acknowledge and commemorate the 100th anniversary of the ANZACs landing at Gallipoli in 1915. The walk involves the ANZAC Memorial Bridge, decorated with steel silhouettes of soldiers and the names of almost 11,000 men and women from the area who enlisted during the First World War. The name ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and was initially given to those who landed on the shores of Gallipoli on the 25th of April, 1915. Now, the ANZAC name is used to honour any Australian or New Zealander who serves their country.

Immediately as we stepped out of the car, we had amazing views of Newcastle Beach and the ocean further out. We could see the ships out at sea. Watching them brought me back to my childhood when we would have picnics at King Edward Park and then watch the ships go by. It was such a simple thing but I was so excited for those days and had so much fun doing nothing but spending time with family. Now, looking out at those ships as an adult, I realise I finally get to make my own family, made of people I know will treat me with love, kindness and patience. 

We walked past some of Newcastle’s old military installations; well not before exploring them first. There was a gorgeous gunner’s cottage which has recently been restored. Down the hill a bit more was also a battery observation post and a gun emplacement. If you walked down a few uneven steps, you could explore further into the gun emplacement itself. We wanted to look around, take a few photos, and treat the area with respect and gratitude. Obviously, others didn’t have the same idea. The walls were covered in graffiti and the ground littered with trash. I felt really sad and disappointed that some people could look at a historical place like this, one where people had worked so hard to defend their country, their city, yet they still chose to destroy it with harmful and disgraceful words and images. People really need to do better. 

Anyway, once we got to the bridge, that was when you could experience the true beauty of Newcastle. The distant views of the city, the beautiful sounds of the waves crashing against the rocks, and being able to acknowledge Australia’s history at war, both national and local. As I explained before, there were steel cutouts of soldiers, with family names etched into each one. Along with these soldiers, there were also plaques with the history of the war and Australia’s involvement, as well as different years and places our soldiers have fought. It may not be the most heart-pounding, sweat-inducing walk, but you get to admire the views of Newcastle while also learning about Australia’s experience in battle over the century.

We stopped along the ANZAC Memorial Bridge to take in our surroundings and appreciate what we have in life. There were a few hang gliders flying around with the wind, I guess because the weather was so nice they wanted to enjoy it their way too. One of the hang gliders was giving us and a few other onlookers a real show, flying right over the top of us, doing spins in the air and just having some real fun with everyone watching. I couldn’t help but think how free they must feel up there in the sky, flying over the water, the city, the people. Watching them gave me a similar kind of freedom, the inspiration to one day spread my wings and walk out into the world with no hesitation. Because when you hesitate, you fall.  

Back to the car we go, still enjoying the sound of the waves and the birds as we wonder. It was only a short walk today, just enough for me to spend some time out in the sunshine. I know, it has been more of a distracted stroll, but hey, my legs are moving so I’m happy!

All photos in this post were taken by me.