Memorial Walk CBD Secondary teacher resource.pdf

2 TORRENS PARADE GROUND
Background Information
Time to allow: 5 minutes.
The area on which the Torrens Parade Ground is situated was originally used for a range of
purposes including a quarry for the stone to build many early buildings in Adelaide such as
Government House and the wall that surrounds it. The quarry was rich in fossils and shells
and of great interest to geologists of the time. The site was subsequently used as a paddock for
depasturing police horses and a dump for various road works debris. Known as the police
paddock, it was described as generally unsightly in a report in the Adelaide “Register” in
August of 1892.
It was during the 1890s, when most of the beautification of North Terrace and the planting of
avenues of elms and other trees including palms took place, that the idea of a parade ground
was conceived. As part of this program of work the establishment of the Torrens Parade
Ground was undertaken. The parade ground with its framework of green lawns and handsome
trees was considered as a great improvement to the area.
The Parade Ground was completed in mid 1893 at a cost of £1,624. It was formally opened on
the 20 June 1893.
During the Boer War and World Wars I and II South Australian raised contingents,
units and battalions assembled at Torrens Parade Ground prior to departing for
overseas service. Over the years the Parade Ground has been used for a range of other
military and civilian purposes. As the result of an arrangement with the State Government the
Drill Hall located on the Parade Ground will shortly be leased to three Ex–Service
organisations. They are the South Australian branch of the RSL (Returned and Services
League; the VVA (Vietnam Veterans’ Association); and RAAFA (Royal Australian Air Force
Association).
Student questions
(1) What was the site of the Torrens Parade Ground originally used as? Hint: the
original use is suggested by the split level of the parade grounds and the area to the
south adjoining Government House.
It had been used as a quarry for stone for Government House and other buildings in
Adelaide.
(2) What was the significance of the Torrens Parade Ground during the Boer War,
World Wars I and II?
It was the location from which all South Australian troops left for overseas during the
Boer War, World Wars I and II.
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