Crypt

In the centre of the Crypt is Raymond Ewers' sculpture Father and son created in 1968 to honour the courage and sacrifice of two generations of Victorians who served and died in the First and Second World Wars. It is symbolic of the service of many Victorian families, in which the father served in the First World War (1914-18) and the son in the Second World War (1939-45).

The Colours on display in the Shrine Crypt originate from 27 Victorian units of the Australian Army and represent some 25 per cent of all Victorian Regimental Colours. Other Colours are laid up elsewhere in Victoria and five are held in the collection of the Australian War Memorial, Canberra. The Colours and guidons have been given into the custody of the Shrine Trustees at solemn ceremonies conducted in accordance with long established traditions.