The
Hurstbridge Memorial Park interpretative signage was launched this week by Mr
Andrew Giles MP, Federal Member for Scullin with Nillumbik Shire Council Mayor,
Cr. Helen Coleman.
The
Hurstbridge Avenue of Honour plaque was also dedicated to local soldiers by Cr.
Coleman.
Local
students from the Hurstbridge Learning co-operative and Hurstbridge Primary
School read the poem and story behind “In Flanders Field”. One student, Mia read out a poem she had
written herself “Lest We Forget”. The audience
were told about the recent Anzac Day commemorations at the Primary School which
included crafting poppies and planting an Oak Tree – a descendant from a tree
at Gallipoli.
The Memorial
park was originally developed by the community’s horticultural group and
consisted of 50 trees, three of which still remain. Only 26 names were registered.
Today’s
event follows the launch last month of the markers at the historic entrance to
the Eltham Gateway and site of the original Avenue of Honour where about 100
trees were planted and cared for by the local community following World War
One.
These Anzac
Centenary Projects were funded by Federal and State government funds. It is hoped that these new projects not only
honour – but create conversations about –
local WW1 enlistments, and the
communities on the home front and indeed those who worked tirelessly to first
build memorials and plant avenues of honour so that Lest we Forget..
