A permanent memorial honouring six children killed in the Hillcrest Primary School tragedy will go before the Devonport City Council for approval next week.
Councillors will vote on Monday on the design and location of the memorial, proposed for foreshore parkland on Coles Beach Road in the state’s north-west.
The children died when a jumping castle was lifted by wind during the school’s end-of-year celebration in December 2021. The tragedy shocked Tasmania and the nation.
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has overseen the project, working with Tasmanian landscape architects Inspiring Place for nearly two years.
“… The voices, memories and wishes of the families of the deceased children have been at the heart of the process,” State Recovery Advisor Simon Hiscock said in a message to families this morning.
“This memorial is not only a site of remembrance, but a gathering place where comfort is found, love can be shared and the strength of the community endures.”
The design focuses on reflection and connection with nature. Plans include landscaped areas, seating, pathways and interpretive features recognising each child.
Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman said the memorial would be “a lasting and heartfelt tribute”.
“This is about creating a space that honours the children, supports their families and offers the wider community a place to connect, heal and
remember,” she said.
“It is a responsibility we take with great care and deep respect.”
The site sits on Crown land within Coles Beach Reserve, leased to the council. Several possible locations were considered during planning.
Jarman said architects had consulted families, community members, nearby residents and the Six Rivers Aboriginal Corporation during the design phase.
Construction will be jointly funded by the state and federal governments. Council will take on maintenance once the memorial is established.
