The plans for Bombing of Darwin Day 2024 are set

Darwin will commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the day 680 bombs were dropped on the harbour, in the first and largest air raid against Australia during World War II, on Monday 19 February. See the event.

Plans for the Bombing of Darwin Day memorial are set. Picture: File

The city will commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the day 680 bombs were dropped on Darwin Harbour, in the first and largest air raid against Australia during World War II, on Monday 19 February.

More than 230 people died with another 400 injured when the bombs rained down on Darwin that day in 1942, with buildings, infrastructure and ships all destroyed.

In memory of those who lost their lives, and those who had theirs changed forever 82 years ago, the City of Darwin will be holding a public event at the Darwin Cenotaph from 9.30am on the 19th.

Image of Darwin bombing. Supplied (Destination Darwin)

Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said it was an important time to reflect and learn about the events that took place in Darwin on that day.

“The Bombing of Darwin was the largest single attack ever mounted by a foreign power on Australian soil which left hundreds of servicemen and civilians dead and injured,” he said.

“What some people might not know is that the number of bombs dropped on Darwin on 19 February 1942 exceeded those dropped on Pearl Harbor a few months prior.

“Each year, we come together as a city and a nation to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and the community that rendered aid, shaping the character of our city today.

“We encourage everyone, from locals to visitors and people interstate and overseas, to stop and reflect on the sacrifices made on 19 February, and express gratitude to those who faced this pivotal moment in our nation’s history.”

A shot of the re-enactment at the Darwin Day 80th Anniversary Commemorative Service. Picture: Adam Taylor /PMO

The commemorative ceremony will include a re-enactment of the city’s defence on that day, a performance by the Band of the 1st Brigade, Australian Defence Force catafalque party, commemorative address, wreath laying, RAAF flyover and the 8/12th Regiment firing of guns.

A second commemorative event will also take place at the USS Peary Memorial at The Esplanade, Bicentennial Park.

Today, the Bombing of Darwin is recognised as a National Day of Observance, a time for reflection, remembrance and gratitude.

For more information visit darwin.nt.gov.au.

Originally published as The plans for Bombing of Darwin Day 2024 are set