The Burwood Council in Sydney has announced plans to honour the legacy of the iconic rock band AC/DC by creating a series of tributes, including a monument that aims to rival Liverpool’s homage to The Beatles. This initiative follows the recent demolition of the former family home of band members Angus and Malcolm Young, which has left many fans dismayed.
The Young brothers formed AC/DC while living in Burwood in 1973. In December, their childhood home was destroyed to make way for a proposed 39-storey tower that will feature a hotel, commercial offices, and 48 two-bedroom flats. This decision sparked backlash from the local community and rock enthusiasts alike.
Plans for Memorials and Cultural Spaces
In response to the outcry, Burwood Council has initiated a plan to commemorate the band. Last week, council members resolved to invite Angus Young and other band members to Sydney for the upcoming Power Up Tour in November. Among the proposed tributes is a plan to rename Railway Square as AC/DC Square.
Additionally, a new 300-seat, 242-square-metre performance space within the forthcoming Burwood Culture House will be named the Young Theatre. This cultural centre is part of a broader initiative that includes moving the existing car park underground to make way for multipurpose halls, increased public space, and a café.
Acknowledging AC/DC’s Contribution
The total investment for the cultural centre is projected to be $57.8 million, with completion expected by 2029. Burwood Mayor John Faker expressed his commitment to honouring the band’s impact on music, stating that plans for the tribute have been in development for several years. Faker clarified that the initiative is “not in response” to the demolition of the Young family home, but rather a long-term recognition of AC/DC’s significant contributions to both Australian and global music.
“We are not forgetting about the contribution they have made not just to Australian and world music, but also locally here in Burwood, and we are going to celebrate that,” said Faker.
The council is also considering the installation of “larger-than-life-sized bronze statues” of the band members, further solidifying Burwood’s intention to create a rock and roll destination for fans. The proposed tribute aligns with similar efforts around the world to commemorate musical legacies, enhancing Burwood’s cultural landscape while attracting visitors.
As plans progress, the Burwood Council aims to ensure that AC/DC’s legacy continues to resonate within the community, fostering a sense of pride and connection to the band’s storied history. The initiatives reflect both a response to community sentiments and a proactive approach to celebrating local heritage.
