McCormack announces ANZAC grants
Communities across the region have been successful in gaining funding as part of the ANZAC Centenary Local Grants program. Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack has announced nine projects commemorating the First World War to receive amounts up to $10.000.
“Riverina towns and districts answered their country’s call in the First World War so it is fitting that monuments and honour boards honouring the local sacrifice be updated and persevered as part of this program,” Mr McCormack said.
The Wagga Wagga Centenary of ANZAC Committee was granted $10,000 for the installation of engraved paving.
Funding will also go towards the restoration of the eternal flame in the Victory Memorial Gardens, with work on this memorial – the first for 31 years – already under way from proceeds from the City Council, RSL Club and Wagga RSL sub-branch.
Hillston RSL sub-branch was granted $4760 for a memorial plaque to be erected in the main street while Gundagai’s World War I memorial gates at ANZAC Park will be restored thanks to a $4280 allocation.
Heritage Darlington Point secretary Mona Finley was delighted $4722 had been granted to help with a publication of war-time reminisces with local significance.
At Rankins Springs, a $4680 grant will be used for cabinets to display restored photographs with service records of those from the area who served in The Great War of 1914-18.
The South West Slopes Vietnam Veterans received $2724 for a Junee and district WWI honour roll to be on permanent display in the Junee Ex-Services Memorial Club.
Other projects funded were $1200 to Adelong Progress Association for an interpretive display commemorating two local boys, the Whiting cousins Henry and Walter, buried side by side after being killed during the 1918 Battle of Amiens.
Barmedman ANZAC Committee will receive $1500 to restore honour boards and Bland Shire has been granted $825 to construct a replica of its WW1 honour board to be placed in the Soldiers’ Memorial Hall at Wyalong.
Mr McCormack said more major funding announcements for the ANZAC centenary would soon be made.