City of Darwin, in collaboration with the Cyclone Tracy Commemoration Advisory Committee, is pleased to release the design of a permanent monument to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy.

The Cyclone Tracy commemoration monument will be a kinetic sculpture that will move with the wind.
Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said the monument was a fitting tribute to recognising one of the most significant events in Darwin’s history.

“The Cyclone Tracy commemoration monument aims to recognise the effects this devastating event had on our community in a meaningful and permanent way,” Mr Vatskalis said.

“The monument will offer a focal point for solace, solidarity and communal reflection and provide a space for collective grieving, remembrance, and healing. 

“It will be a symbol of resilience and perseverance amidst adversity, honouring the memories of those lost, validating the experiences of survivors, and reflecting the spirit of the Darwin community. 

“It will serve as an educational tool, ensuring visitors and future generations understand the impact Cyclone Tracy had on the Darwin community.

Phil Price Sculpture, an Australasian company that designs, engineers and constructs carbon fibre kinetic sculptures, has been commissioned to deliver the project. 

Phil Price is well known for his unique, wind activated, kinetic sculptures that explore elements of the natural world combined with high quality engineering. 

The design will be made of materials that can withstand a harsh coastal environment without corroding, and has been designed to withstand winds, sun, sand and rain. 

The monument will be located at Bundilla Beach, Fannie Bay and will be surrounded by a reflective area, providing a space for contemplation and allowing visitors to experience Darwin’s iconic sunrise and sunset. 

Bundilla Beach was chosen as the most appropriate location as the path of Cyclone Tracy crossed just north of Fannie Bay at 3.30am on Christmas Day.

This project complements City of Darwin’s commitment to honouring the legacy of Cyclone Tracy and supporting the community’s ongoing journey of resilience and recovery. 

The project is expected to cost $700,000, including landscaping of the surrounding area, with the Australian Government already committing $300,000 in funding.

For more information visit darwin.nt.gov.au/community/things-to-do/community-celebrations/cyclone-tracy-50th-anniversary

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Solomon (Darwin and Palmerston) Luke Gosling OAM MP:

“I’ve worked closely with the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government to ensure a Federal Government contribution of $300,000 to help deliver a permanent monument at Bundilla Beach to mark the 50th Anniversary of Cyclone Tracy.

“Darwin will have a dedicated space to mark this chapter in our history where survivors and their families can visit to remember, reflect and heal and where visitors and new Territorians can learn more about this tragedy and pay their respects. 

“Earlier this year Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Catherine King MP and I visited the Cyclone Tracy exhibition at the Museum and Art Gallery Northern Territory and the monument will complement this moving exhibition.”

Quotes attributable to Phil Price from Phil Price Sculpture:

“It’s a very special privilege to be asked to design and build a wind activated kinetic sculpture to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy. 

“It is my hope to bring joy, something very special and memorable to City of Darwin and its visitors later this year.”