Vietnamese Boat People Monument

The Hon. T.T. NGO (15:33): It is with great pride that I rise to speak about the Vietnamese boat people monument, which was approved by the City of Adelaide last week, to be built alongside the River Torrens at the corner of Kintore Avenue and Victoria Drive. This monument tells the story of 2 million Vietnamese people who fled their war-torn country. I am one of those two million people who threw themselves to the mercy of the sea, searching for somewhere safe to live, free from war, terror and corruption.

The monument symbolises and commemorates a journey as seen through the eyes of two young Vietnamese Australians. It is the concept of family through its strength and its survival across generations and the sacrifices families from one generation made so that others may flourish. It is an opportunity for a safe and better future in Australia.

The monument is also a gift of gratitude from the Vietnamese community to the wider Australian community for welcoming and accepting us when we sought safety and sanctuary. The Adelaide city location was chosen so people from near and far can visit. More importantly, this location connects the monument with water. Water is an essential element of the monument. It represents the passage by water we faced coming to Australia.

The location is adjacent to the Torrens Parade Ground and the ANZAC memorial walk, places where we commemorate and remember those who fought and those who died, including soldiers from the Vietnam War. The Vietnam War and the boat people are connected in history. These events significantly shaped our region and the spirit of our nations. Placing this monument near the Vietnam War Memorial respects the interconnectedness of these two important events.

The monument is designed to gently sit upon the earth and will enhance its surroundings in harmony with the natural environment. It will invite people into the greenery and open space. Visitors can interact, walk around and within it, exploring from different angles and positions. The monument recognises the plight of the Vietnamese boat people. Its design is symbolic. Thereby, the design can be appreciated and enjoyed by people of all cultures.

My hope is that the monument provides an emotionally uplifting and thoughtful place for visitors, a place to feel at peace. The monument will encourage visitors to think about their own journey, especially younger and future generations to reflect about their families' present and past journeys.

Many people have gone above and beyond in their support for this project. I say thank you. I especially acknowledge the City of Adelaide Lord Mayor Sandy Verschoor, elected members and staff. Their support has been tremendous, particularly in getting this project off the ground. I also pay special acknowledgement to former lord mayor Martin Haese and current Deputy Lord Mayor Houssam Abiad, whom I met very early on for coffee when this project was just a dream.

I thank our Governor, Hieu Van Le, who himself arrived in Australia as a boat person, for his ongoing support. I also wish to acknowledge our former premier of South Australia, Jay Weatherill, who was crucial in ensuring the state government's support for this important project. This monument will outlive generations past and present, and will be a special place for people to visit where they can learn and reflect with a sense of both peace and purpose for many years to come. I look forward to officially unveiling the Vietnamese boat people monument next year.