HELPING LOCAL COMMUNITIES REMEMBER WAR VETERANS

Two projects have been approved for funding under the Federal Government’s Saluting Their Service Program ahead of one of the most important days in our nation’s calendar – Remembrance Day.

Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said it was important to remember and commemorate the efforts of our Veterans.

“The Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program provides funding for worthy projects to ensure future generations are educated and reminded of the sacrifices of so many brave men and women who came from our local communities,” Mr McCormack said.

“The timing of these grants is significant as we all pause on Remembrance Day to reflect, remember and honour those who paid the ultimate price so that we can live in relative freedom and democracy.

“I am pleased Junee Reefs Public Hall and Young Historical Society have each received funding and I look forward to visiting both these wonderful community groups in the future.”

The Young Historical Society will receive $9,700 to go towards installing three cabinets in the Lambing Flat Folk Museum to display locally significant wartime memorabilia from the Korean and Vietnam wars.

The Junee Reefs Public School Honour Board, which lists the names of students who served in World War I, will be restored thanks to a $3,218 grant.

The funding comes as the nation prepares to pause and observe a minute’s silence on Remembrance Day to reflect on the service and sacrifice of all those Australians who have proudly worn an Australian Defence Force uniform in times of war and peace.

“Remembrance Day is one of the most important national days on the Australian calendar,” Mr McCormack said.

“I am proud of the fact that wonderful people in the communities throughout the Riverina and Central West – both large and small alike – continue to ensure we do not forget our local heroes and what they have done for us.”

Since 1914, more than 102,000 Australian service personnel have lost their lives in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Australians can access commemorative resources for Remembrance Day, including stories from those who served, from the ANZAC Portal (https://anzacportal.dva.gov.au/).