Glenelg Air Raid Shelter: A Wartime Relic
Explore Glenelg's WWII history at the Air Raid Shelter. Discover stories of resilience and wartime communications in a preserved historical landmark.
The Glenelg Air Raid Shelter, constructed in 1942, stands as a tangible reminder of Australia's involvement in World War II. Built as part of a vital communications network, this shelter served as a civil defence communications centre and a base for local Air Raid Wardens. Today, it houses exhibitions and memorabilia that narrate the experiences of Holdfast Bay residents during the war years. Inside the shelter, visitors can explore five main rooms, protected by a 30cm heavily reinforced concrete roof. The exhibitions showcase a range of artifacts and stories related to the war, offering insights into the daily lives and anxieties of those who lived through this period. Volunteers are available to share their knowledge and listen to personal war stories or family memories, adding a personal touch to the experience. The Glenelg Air Raid Shelter is one of only four remaining in the Adelaide area, making it a significant historical site. Restored in 1995 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the war's end, the shelter provides a unique opportunity to understand Australia's wartime history and the resilience of its people.
Local tips
- The shelter is only open on the third Sunday of each month from 1pm to 3pm, as well as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day.
- Entry is via a steep flight of stairs, so it may not be suitable for visitors with mobility issues.
- A gold coin donation is appreciated to support the shelter's upkeep.
A brief summary to Glenelg Air Raid Shelter
- Rugless Terrace, Glenelg East, South Australia, 5045, AU
- +61882299916
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Glenelg Air Raid Shelter is accessible via public transport. From the Adelaide CBD, take the Glenelg tram to the Glenelg East stop. From the tram stop, walk along Brighton Road, then turn onto Rugless Terrace. The shelter is located next to the Glenelg Football Oval. A single tram ticket from the city to Glenelg costs approximately $5.
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Walking
If you are already in the Glenelg area, the Air Raid Shelter is easily accessible by foot. From the popular Glenelg Beach, walk east along Jetty Road, then turn right onto Brighton Road. Continue onto Rugless Terrace. The shelter is located next to the Glenelg Football Oval. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Glenelg. A short trip from Glenelg Beach to the Air Raid Shelter will cost approximately $10-$15, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
Attractions Nearby to Glenelg Air Raid Shelter
Landmarks nearby to Glenelg Air Raid Shelter
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Glenelg Air Raid Shelter
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Stormont Historic Mansion
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Glenelg Visitor Information
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Glenelg Pioneer Memorial
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Old Gum Tree Reserve
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Historic Cummins House
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J Quarry
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West Terrace Cemetery
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John Brown Memorial Monument
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Charles Sturt Museum
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Colonel Light Memorial Monument
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Modernist Adelaide Walking Tour
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A.R.A
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Adelaide Sightseeing
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Hindmarsh Bridge