But the arrival of a mother duck and her eight ducklings yesterday was a reminder of the cycle of life to visitors pausing at the memorial's Pool of Reflection.

This is the fourth year in a row that a duck has chosen to hatch her young in the tranquil surrounds of the commemorative courtyard, in a delicate feathered nest under one of the low hedges that adorns the area.

Memorial staff believe she is the same duck as in previous years, as she has nested in the same spot and exhibited similar behaviour towards her ducklings.

The duck usually stays for up to a week and produces one batch of ducklings a year, although one year she produced two.

Media relations officer Leigh Harris said the mother usually took her offspring into the water and paddled around with them for a day or two, to ensure they were strong enough, before embarking on the perilous journey down Anzac Parade to Lake Burley Griffin.

Ms Harris said that last year the duck took her brood up the steps and did a short lap of the Roll of Honour to test their strength before setting off.

Staff members are now watching closely so that when the time comes, they can help the new family on the relatively long walk to the lake, by escorting them at a distance and ensuring they don't get run over.

For more on the ducks, see today's Canberra Times.