Maitland Sandakan Memorial is a solemn tribute to the brave soldiers of the 8th Division A.I.F. and British Troops who endured unimaginable hardships during World War II. The memorial features a rectangular brick platform adorned with two granite slabs and a brass sculptural terrain map depicting the harrowing route of the forced death marches in Borneo. Three plaques on the platform bear the names of the prisoners, honoring their sacrifice and courage.
This poignant memorial, unveiled in 1994, stands as a reminder of the 1800 Australians and 750 British Troops who valiantly defended Malaya and Singapore before becoming prisoners of the Japanese. The memorial’s detailed sculptured terrain showcases the treacherous journey undertaken by the prisoners, highlighting the atrocities they faced at the hands of their captors. The names of the fallen soldiers are etched on the plaques, ensuring that their memory lives on.
Managed by the Sandakan Memorial Foundation, this memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the men from the Hunter Region of New South Wales. Through its intricate design and historical significance, the Maitland Sandakan Memorial honors the legacy of those who fought and perished during one of the darkest chapters of World War II, ensuring that their bravery and resilience are never forgotten.
