Funding announced for WWI memorials across Bundaberg

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt today announced almost $50,000 for organisations in Bundaberg and Bargara to commemorate the Centenary of the First World War.

Mr Pitt said the Bundaberg Regional Council would receive $44,941 under the Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program, to build a memorial on the Bargara esplanade in time for 100th anniversary commemorations in 2015.

“The Bargara Dawn Service has been so well attended in recent years that the current memorial site is at capacity,” Mr Pitt said.

“The new WWI memorial will accommodate larger crowds to inform, educate and inspire future generations.

“The memorial will feature a catafalque commemorating the Anzac spirit, and form part of Council’s broader refurbishment of the esplanade.”

Mr Pitt said the Bundaberg & District Ex-Service Women’s Association would receive $1668 to commemorate when the first contingent of Australian Army Nursing Sisters departed for Gallipoli.

President Jenny Waldron said the Association would revitalise the War Nurses Memorial Park, across from the Bundaberg Base Hospital, to include a new Australian Service Nurses Memorial Wall that will complement the existing heritage-listed pavilion.

“The wall will also feature a special plaque to acknowledge the woman who served in units and hospitals other than the Australian Army Nursing Service. We are seeking the community’s help to ensure all our nurses are named,” Ms Waldron said.

“Sacrifice, courage, devotion, faith, hope and charity will be the memorial’s central themes.

“We are truly grateful for the support we have received from our local representatives and the community.”

Hinkler applications for the Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program closed on January 31. They were assessed for eligibility by an independent local committee and sent to Minister Michael Ronaldson for final approval.

“I’m delighted to announce these very worthwhile local projects, which commemorate one of the most significant events in Australia’s history,” Mr Pitt said.

Media contact: Larine Statham 0427 653 814