Devonport City Council will next week be asked to support proposed design plans for a Hillcrest Permanent Memorial to be established in honour of the children who lost their lives in the December 2021 Hillcrest Primary School jumping castle tragedy.
Tasmasnia’s Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPAC) has engaged Inspiring Place to design the memorial following consultation with impacted families, community representatives, neighbouring residents, and the Six Rivers Aboriginal Corporation.
The Council says the design emphasises reflection, connection, accessibility, and the natural landscape, with thoughtful elements recognising each of the six children who died in the tragic incident.
The chosen site at Coles Beach Road — which is Crown land within the Coles Beach Reserve and is leased to the Devonport City Council — offers a peaceful location for gathering and remembrance. The design includes landscaped areas, seating, pathways, and interpretive features.
“This memorial will be a lasting and heartfelt tribute. While DPAC is leading its creation, Council’s endorsement and maintenance commitment will ensure it remains a respectful and accessible place for future generations to come together in reflection,” said Mayor, Alison Jarman.
“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. It is a responsibility we take with great care and deep respect.”
Construction of the memorial will be fully funded by the State and Federal Governments. Maintenance will be included in Council’s ongoing operational budget, once responsibility for its maintenance is assumed by Council.
The Hillcrest Permanent Memorial is expected to provide a dignified, inclusive, and enduring symbol of remembrance for Devonport and Tasmania, the Mayor said.
The proposed design document can be found at: TasRECOVERY’s Hillcrest Permanent Memorial webpage.
