HERstory: Remembering Australia’s Military Women
Created by artist Carla Edwards, HERstory began as a small portrait project on the NSW Central Coast in 2022. It has since grown into a remarkable national undertaking, with Carla travelling more than 120,000 kilometres across five states and one territory to photograph and interview women who served in war and peace. The free Shrine exhibition, on until May 2026, honours the women who have served in Australia’s armed forces, past and present, and gives their voices the space they deserve.
Below is our contributor Angie’s firsthand experience of the exhibition.
HERstory at Melbourne’s Shrine
From Angie
HERstory, is the work of artist Carla Edwards. She photographed and interviewed over 200 women in Australia who have served in war and peace from 1942 to today’s integrated Army, Navy and Air Force.
The Shrine’s exhibition is a selected group of portraits representing military women based in Victoria and shares some of their lesser-known stories of bravery, resilience & strength.
In addition to informative captions, you can use a QR code to listen in more detail to stories from the women, spoken in their own voices. I chose to explore my four favourite portraits. Each recording ran for 5-7 minutes and was both emotional and educational, and well worth the listen.
There is also a large multi-media wreath constructed of the flowers & foliage representing participating countries and our Allies in war. It has an interactive console that explains each plant and its meaning or usefulness in war.
I spent an hour enjoying this exhibition, and as always, there is so much more to see at the Shrine, if you have time. It was a 25-minute walk from Flinders Street Station or a handful of tram stops.
Entry and access
Entry is free or by donation. HERstory is located in the Galleries of Remembrance at the Shrine of Remembrance. The Galleries are set in an underground chamber beneath the Shrine.
The Shrine is very accessible. There are ramps, lifts, seating throughout the building and accessible toilets. Volunteers and staff are approachable and happy to help if you need directions or information.
Getting there
Getting there is fairly simple by public transport. Anzac Station is the new, primary Metro Tunnel station serving the Shrine of Remembrance, located on St Kilda Road, opposite the memorial.
It’s also quite easy from Flinders Street Station, you can get on the following trams: 3, 5, 8, 16, 64 or 67. It’s around a 25-minute walk from Flinders Street Station. Trams stop close to the Shrine, with level access at many stops.
Convenient car parking is also available nearby.
What to do nearby
If you feel like extending your visit, there’s plenty close by. The Shrine itself has multiple galleries and quiet spaces, so you can take your time and explore at your own pace. The 45-minute guided tours cost seniors card holders $15.
Across the road, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer flat paths, shaded benches and lovely spots for a gentle walk or rest. On a fine day, the views back towards the city from the Shrine forecourt are well worth lingering over.
Final thoughts
HERstory is thoughtful, moving and deeply respectful. It’s the kind of exhibition that encourages you to slow down, listen carefully and reflect. If you’re looking for something meaningful to see in Melbourne, this is well worth your time.
A visit to the Shrine of Remembrance can be an emotional experience. For support, please visit the well-being resources available via the Shrine website here.
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