Funding announced for WWI memorials in Isis district

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt today announced $13,000 for organisations in Woodgate and Childers to commemorate the Centenary of the First World War.

Mr Pitt said the Woodgate RSL Sub-Branch would receive $10,000 under the Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program, to build a memorial on the esplanade.

“Patronage at the Anzac Dawn Service in Woodgate has grown significantly in recent years, despite the absence of an official memorial,” Mr Pitt said.

“The impressive memorial proposed by Woodgate RSL will feature four pillars to represent Army, Navy, Air Force and Nursing and includes educational information that details the significance of WWI.

“The memorial has been thoughtfully designed to facilitate commemorations in 2015, and to be a lasting legacy for future generations.”

Mr Pitt said the Childers Military and Memorabilia Museum had been granted $3000.

“The museum, which is operated by a generous and dedicated local family, has a considerable collection of WWI memorabilia that they had previously been unable to display,” he said.

“They will purchase cabinets to display and preserve the pieces for the thousands of tourists, locals and school children who visit the museum each year.”

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.

“I look forward to seeing these projects delivered in time for the 2015 anniversary.”

Media contact: Larine Statham 0427 653 814