By Russell Bennett
MOUNT Evelyn’s RSL is literally shining a light on the memory of the town’s fallen diggers.
It has received a Yarra Ranges Council grant to illuminate its memorial and recently-repaired flagpole each evening with a spotlight at the top of the Wray Crescent shopping strip.
Government regulations say Australian flags can not fly at night unless fully lit.
The RSL has also applied for a grant to pay for a plaque containing local fallen soldiers’ names, ages, and locations where they lost their lives.
The names of the six Mount Evelyn RSL members who have died in the past six months, including former president Derek Crittenden, will be remembered as well.
Mount Evelyn RSL president Roger Boness said it would tie in with a government push to celebrate the ANZAC centenary in 2015.
Mr Boness said his RSL would continue to enhance its partnerships with local schools in the lead-up to the centenary with educational programs about Australia’s past conflicts.
He said the memorial garden – near the corner of Birmingham Road and Wray Crescent – was a focal point for the town.
He said it had not been vandalised since the flagpole was repaired and the memorial restored late last year.
“We’re just hoping to keep it that way,” he said.
He hoped the light would dissuade any potential vandals from attacking the memorial at night.
Mr Boness said he admired Benalla’s regional gardens and the Bacchus Marsh Avenue of Honour.
“We want this to hold the same meaning and be part of our heritage,” he said.
“We’re not just another town with an RSL.
“Our schools really back us and the national school curriculum really gives the RSL an opportunity to interact with schools on the history of past conflicts and what happens after they’re over.”
Mr Boness added: “The RSL hasn’t always set the standard – not recognising fighters of certain conflicts, and migrant soldiers.
“But now, through memorials and the upcoming centenary, it has.
“We have this place – one place that brings people together, one for mates to bond and exchange their life experiences.”
