Honouring the Fallen: Canal Creek Memorial Service Remembers 31 WWII Heroes

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Published
8th July 2025

Livingstone Shire Council invites the community to attend the Canal Creek Memorial Service to honour the 31 United States and Australian Armed Services personnel who tragically lost their lives in a World War II aircraft crash on 19 December 1943.

On that day, a Douglas C-47 aircraft, en route from Townsville to Archerfield, suffered a mechanical failure near Rockhampton. Its left engine caught fire, causing the plane to crash at Canal Creek Station. All passengers and crew on board perished.

The Canal Creek War Memorial, established in 2012, stands as a lasting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Adorned with a sandstone plinth, bronze plaque, interpretive signage, and salvaged wreckage pieces, the memorial ensures the legacy of these servicemen and women is never forgotten.

This years’ service marks over eight decades since the tragedy and continues the community’s tradition of remembrance and respect.

The program includes:

  • Raising of the Flags
  • Prayers and readings
  • Reflections from dignitaries including Mayor Adam Belot
  • Musical tributes including the hymn Abide with Me
  • A community gathering following the service

Mayor Adam Belot emphasised the importance of remembrance and community in honouring the fallen.

“The Canal Creek tragedy reminds us not only of the lives lost but of the strength and resilience of our community. We gather to honour those 31 brave service personnel and to ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten,” Mayor Belot said.

“By remembering them together—locals, visitors, Australians and Americans—we reaffirm our shared values of courage, duty, and unity.”

Service Details

Date: Sunday, 20 July 2025
Time: 2pm – 3pm followed by afternoon tea at The Caves Pub.
Location: Canal Creek War Memorial, Canal Creek Road, Canal Creek

Travel and Transport Information:

  • Driving Directions:
    • From Yeppoon or Rockhampton, travel north on the Bruce Highway and turn into The Caves township.
    • Turn left onto Rossmoya Road (in front of The Caves Hotel).
    • Follow the bitumen for 25.7km to the Werribee Road and Canal Creek Road intersection.
    • Turn left onto Canal Creek Road (gravel) and continue for 1.3km to the memorial site. Signage will be in place.
  • Courtesy Buses:
    • Rockhampton: Departing from The Dreamtime Centre at 1pm
    • Yeppoon: Departing from Yeppoon Town Hall at 1pm

RSVP and Further Information:
Email: events@livingstone.qld.gov.au
Phone: 1300 790 919