Digger Elks Memorial Bridge

The Digger Elks Memorial Bridge is located in Alma Park in Uralla, NSW, linking the western and eastern sections of the park. It is a timber bridge, with a timber superstructure and handrails. Attached to the bridge is a bronze plaque bearing the name of Sergeant Ernest Edward (Ernie) Elks, who died will serving the in Second World War. The bridge was built in his honour, in the place where he used to cross the creek between his home and workplace. 

A local of Uralla, Elks was the eldest of 10 children of Mr and Mrs Edward Elks. All five of their sons enlisted and served in the war, with Ernie being the only one who lost his life. He had conducted a saddlery business in the town before enlisting on 24 October 1939. He joined the newly formed 2/2 Battalion Australian Imperial Force (AIF), which had been raised in October 1939. The Battalion was deployed to the Middle East and in early 1941, took part in the first ground action undertaken by Australian troops during the war, the Battle of Bardia.

Elks was killed in action on 24 December 1940, during a bombing raid at Sallum Beach wharf, just prior to the commencement of the Battle. It is reported by various sources (for example, 'Frontline – World War 2 Diary of Richard L. Roberts', p. 92) that Elks was the first battle casualty of the 2/2 AIF. In March 1945, his remains were interred in the Halfaya Sollum War Cemetery, Egypt. Ernie was 32 years old at the time of his death. 

Alma Park includes several war memorials, listed separately on the NSW War Memorials Register (see the Related Memorials section below). The park is the site for various commemorative services throughout the year. While the Alma Park Memorial Gates are the focal point for ceremonies, all memorials in the park are included in the services. 

Note: While the bridge was constructed in 1938, it is unknown when it was dedicated as a memorial. It may have been in August 1960.