Legacy in stone: Charles Bean Research Centre opens with Bean's family

The granddaughter of Charles Bean—Australia’s first official war correspondent and founder of the Australian War Memorial—has led the official opening of the new Charles Bean Research Centre in Canberra on 5 June.

Australian War Memorial Director, Matt Anderson PSM, and the Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh, also participated in the new research centre's opening to the public.

Anne Carroll OAM, honoured her grandfather’s legacy at the event, says Charles Bean would have been in awe of the world-class facility named after him.

“Bean would have been amazed by this magnificent building,” Ms Carroll said. “From the Gallipoli coastline detail on the ceiling to the cutting-edge storage and viewing spaces, every detail has been meticulously planned. It’s a true testament to his vision.”

The research centre houses priceless artefacts from the National Collection, including Bean’s personal notebooks, letters and diaries—starting from when he sailed with the First Australian Imperial Force in 1914.

Australian War Memorial Director Matt Anderson said the Charles Bean Research Centre was a cornerstone of the Memorial’s ambitious development project.

“Many overlook that the Australian War Memorial is not just a shrine and museum, but also a vital archive. Indeed, the Memorial can trace its genesis to the establishment of the Australian War Records Section in 1917,” Mr Anderson said.

“This new facility houses and preserves our extensive archives, offering researchers, historians and visitors access to a wealth of Australian military history. It’s a space to protect, digitise, and share these invaluable records for generations to come.

“Bean once said, ‘Here is their spirit, in the heart of the land they loved; and here we guard the record which they themselves made.’ Today, we’re proud to have Bean’s family help us launch this building, ensuring his legacy lives on.”

The Charles Bean Research Centre is open to visitors Monday to Friday 10:00 am – 4:30 pm, and Saturdays 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm.

IMAGES: https://filetransfer.awm.gov.au/message/YrROPHcTCyIGAOKsq02mL3 

Handout Images will be available on https://www.flickr.com/photos/australianwarmemorial/

For Editors: 

Raiders hooker Tom Starling looked up his family history at the Charles Bean Research Centre

Tom’s Great Grandfather, William John Starling, known as ‘Snow’, served in the Second World War in the 2/30th Unit of the Australian Infantry Battalion with the Australian Army.

William, from Parramatta in Western Sydney, was sent to Singapore and was captured by the Japanese and made a prisoner of war.

VNR of  Tom Starling looking at items related to William John Starling here: https://f.io/PW37d0nH

Imagery: www.awm.gov.au/collection/C53644

CONTACT:  Media team on 02 6243 4575, 0449 775 688 or media@awm.gov.au