Located along the Remembrance Driveway (Federal Highway) on the northern approach to Canberra, the Hughie Edwards VC Rest Area serves as a vital stopping point for travellers and a poignant memorial to one of Australia's most decorated aviators. Named in honour of Air Vice-Marshal Sir Hughie Idwal Edwards, the only Australian airman to be awarded the Victoria Cross, the Distinguished Service Order, and the Distinguished Flying Cross during World War II, this rest area offers more than just a place to stretch your legs. It provides a moment of reflection on Australia's military history amidst the rolling landscape of the Majura Valley.
As a designated rest area rather than a national park campground, the site is designed primarily for transit stops. However, it is widely used by caravanners, motorhome drivers, and truck drivers for overnight stays to manage fatigue. The area is bitumen-sealed and spacious, making it easily accessible for big rigs and large caravans that might struggle with tighter bush campsites. While the amenities are basic—consisting mainly of drop toilets, sheltered picnic tables, and rubbish bins—the convenience of its location cannot be overstated. It sits just 15 minutes north of the Canberra city centre, making it an excellent staging point for those arriving late or planning an early entry into the capital.
The site is set back slightly from the highway, offering a buffer from the traffic noise, though earplugs are still recommended for light sleepers. Towering gum trees provide scattered shade, and the open grassy areas are suitable for walking pets, which are welcome here. It is important to note that this is a "self-contained" friendly stop. While toilets are provided, there is no potable water or power, so visitors should come prepared. The maximum stay is generally limited to 24 hours, encouraging turnover and ensuring the space remains available for weary drivers needing a safe place to rest.
Being located in the Majura district, the rest area is incredibly close to the Majura Park precinct, a major commercial hub hosting supermarkets, petrol stations, and camping supply stores. This makes restocking supplies or grabbing a hot meal incredibly easy before continuing your journey. Whether you are passing through on your way to the snowfields, heading down to the coast, or visiting the nearby Australian War Memorial, the Hughie Edwards VC Rest Area offers a practical, safe, and historically significant pause in your travels.
