MemorialsConsett Davis Memorial Playing Fields, Armidale
About
The memorial is a large grassed sports ground within the University of New England campus in Armidale, NSW. It includes a number of fields for football, hockey, basketball and athletics, complete with goal posts, line markings and lighting. In August 1946, the Senate of the University of Sydney approved a suggestion by the Sports Union of the New England University College to establish the grounds. The Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser, 26 August 1946, reported: It is proposed that the playing-field be named after Dr. Consett, an eminent scientist and one of the first members appointed to the lecturing staff, who lost his life in New Guinea while serving with the R.A.A.F. It is planned to construct a well-equipped pavilion as a memorial to college students who were killed on active service. Around October 1946, a public appeal was launched in Armidale for funds (Glen Innes Examiner, 16 November 1946). In May 1947, the Mayor called a public meeting to discuss the Consett Davis Memorial Playing Fields Movement, following a request from the Armidale Rotary Club (Armidale Express, 2 June 1947). Donations were accepted from individuals and many community organisations and fundraising activities included an Art Union and sports days (The Armidale Express and New England General Advertiser, 15 October 1947). In the Armidale Express on 8 July 1949, Registrar of the college W.M. Robb stated "work on the Consett Davis Memorial Playing Fields at the New England University College is proceeding very satisfactorily." He further announced: Plans provide for a cricket oval, a football field, a hockey field and two basketball courts. It is hoped that funds will be available to lay down a turf wicket and a cinder athletic track.