Edward Kenna VC Rest Area

The Edward Kenna VC Rest Area is a commemorative site located on the northbound side of the Hume Highway at Pheasants Nest in Wollondilly Shire, New South Wales, Australia. Established in August 2012, it honours Private Edward “Ted” Kenna VC, a distinguished Australian soldier awarded the Victoria Cross for his exceptional bravery during World War Two. The location is next to the Ampol Service Station (in 2025), near the dog park. Outdoor seating is available here and the nearby Acknowledgement to Country.

Edward Kenna was born on 6 July 1919 in Hamilton, Victoria. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in August 1940 and served in various battalions before being assigned to the 2/4th Battalion. On 15 May 1945, near Wewak in New Guinea, Kenna displayed extraordinary courage by single-handedly neutralizing a Japanese machine gun position under heavy fire, an act for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross. He passed away on 8 July 2009 in Geelong, Victoria. He was the last surviving Australian recipient of the Victoria Cross from World War II.

The rest area forms part of the Remembrance Driveway, a memorial route between Sydney and Canberra dedicated to honouring Australian service members. The Edward Kenna VC Rest Area was developed by Roads and Maritime Services and was officially dedicated in August 2012.

These rest areas are a great place to stop, have a break from driving and learn about Australia’s VC recipients.

Citation

The citation for Edward Kenna’s VC reads:

In the attack on the Wirui Mission features, near Wewak, New Guinea, on 15th May 1945, a platoon was ordered to attack a Japanese-held ridge. The only approach was along a narrow spur, leading directly to a well-camouflaged Japanese bunker, which contained a machine gun and a number of riflemen. The position was well sited and covered the whole line of advance with fire.

When the leading section came under heavy fire and suffered casualties, it was forced to ground. Private Kenna’s section was then ordered forward.

As the section advanced, it also came under fire from the same bunker. With complete disregard for his own safety, Private Kenna stood up in full view of the enemy, about 50 yards away, and opened fire with his Bren gun. He then advanced steadily toward the enemy position, firing from the hip.

Despite intense enemy fire, Private Kenna continued to advance, completely neutralised the Japanese machine-gun crew, and killed the gunner and two riflemen. His bold and aggressive action enabled his platoon to continue the attack and secure their objective.

The courage and determination displayed by Private Kenna were of the highest order and were an inspiration to all who witnessed his actions.