The Spectacular Freedom of Entry Ceremonial Parade in Canberra
Prepare to witness history in the making this Saturday, 30 November, as officers and sailors from HMAS Canberra march through the streets of the city for the 10th anniversary of the commissioning of their ship.
In Brief:
- The Freedom of Entry ceremonial parade is happening on Saturday, 30 November.
- HMAS Canberra crew will march through the city.
- Members of the public can come along to watch.
- There will be traffic and bus changes during the event.
Key Details
- Date: Saturday, 30 November 2024
- When: Parade, 11am–11:45am
- Where: Form up at Veteran’s Park, Official Challenge at Civic Square
A Spectacular Parade Through Canberra
Witness the grandeur as HMAS Canberra crew exercise their right to Freedom of Entry into the city. Swords drawn, bayonets fixed, colors flying – this parade will be a sight to behold, accompanied by the Royal Australian Navy marching band.
More than 200 individuals, including crew members from HMAS Canberra, cadets from Training Ship Canberra, the Shropshire Association, the Royal Australian Navy Band, and veterans, will march through the city streets. Desmond (Des) Grieve Jones, the sole survivor of the original HMAS Canberra crew, will also be in attendance.
A Historical Tradition: Freedom of Entry
Originating in the 19th century, the Freedom of Entry tradition takes inspiration from medieval history. It is the highest honor a city can bestow on the Australian Defence Force and is celebrated with a ceremonial parade through the city streets.
Parade Route
The parade will commence at 11am at Veteran’s Park, proceed along Northbourne Avenue and London Circuit, and make a brief stop at Civic Square for the Official Challenge by ACT Policing’s Deputy Chief Police Officer, Assistant Commissioner Doug Boudry APM, before concluding at Glebe Park around 11:45am.
Come and Witness the Parade
Canberrans are encouraged to line the streets, with the best vantage points along London Circuit. Experience the pomp and ceremony of the parade, show your support for the crew, and celebrate the 10-year milestone since the commissioning of HMAS Canberra. The parade will be followed by a helicopter flyover.
Traffic and Bus Changes
There will be temporary traffic changes and bus disruptions from 10am on the morning of the parade. Some road closures include Bunda Street, Northbourne Avenue southbound (with one lane open), and London Circuit. Traffic marshals will assist with access and egress for residents, and normal traffic flow is expected to resume by 12 noon.
Bus Stop Closures
During the event, bus stops at Legislative Assembly, Commonwealth Bank, and Waldorf will be closed from 10am to 12 noon. Buses in the city bus interchange area may experience brief delays until the parade passes East Row / London Circuit, while light rail services will operate as usual.
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