This year’s Anzac Day service at the Light Horse Memorial in Freedom Park, Hervey Bay will have a special addition with a display of 1,443 handmade ceramic Flanders poppies.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt is encouraging locals to get behind the ‘Lest We Forget’ – Poppy Project Hervey Bay with some poppies still available for purchase.

“Anzac Day is an important time to reflect on the service and sacrifice of the servicemen and women who have fought for our country,” Mr Pitt said.

“Our nation would not be what it is today without their bravery and dedication and April 25 is an opportunity to commemorate that service.

“The Lest We Forget Poppy Project Hervey Bay have made 1,443 ceramic Flanders poppies with the funds raised for the Mates4Mates mental health program.

“As well as the members of the group, local representatives including councillors, school principals and students, veterans groups and emergency service personnel, have all helped make poppies ensuring it’s a community project.

“I’m proud to support the ‘Lest we forget’ Poppy Project Hervey Bay and encourage as many people as possible to attend a local Anzac Day service on Monday.”

‘Lest We Forget’ – Poppy Project Hervey Bay project manager Fliur-Louise Genevieve said there are still poppies available for sale today from 10am – 2pm, Friday April 22 from 10am – 6pm, and on Anzac Day from 7am – 4pm or until sold out, at the Hervey Bay RSL.

“The concept for this project was inspired by an art installation in London of ceramic poppies, however the design used is unique to the Hervey Bay group,” Ms Genevieve said.

“The number of poppies made represents the total number of names listed on the Light Horse Memorial and the Pialba Cenotaph.

“The visual art installation – which will cover more than 50 square metres – will recognise the service and sacrifices made by all military people.

“We have been working on this project since April last year and each poppy is hand crafted and as unique as the service person they represent.

“I want to thank the Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch and the Hervey Bay RSL who funded and supported this project.”

Poppies purchased can be collected between April 26-29 after being on display.