Memorial makeover

MINISTER for Veterans’ Affairs, Michael Ronaldson, and Member for La Trobe, Jason Wood, last week re-opened the refurbished Anzac Memorial at Ferny Creek.
The stone shelter, located in the Sherbrooke Forest, was a dedication to those who served in the World War I and was originally erected by local returned servicemen in 1939.
Mr Wood said the project was another example of how the government was working with the local community to commemorate the Centenary of Anzac.
“It was only a few weeks ago that we had the Governor-General and the Minister here in La Trobe opening the Anzac Walk, so it is fantastic that we now have another great commemorative project finished ahead of Anzac Day,” Mr Wood said.
Senator Ronaldson said he was proud to see the Ferny Creek and Sassafras community take such an interest in commemorating and remembering the service of the Anzacs.
“The refurbishment of the Ferny Creek memorial will enable the local community to conduct a special service for the Anzac Centenary this year,” he said.
“The Australian Government is proud to provide $10,000 through the Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program to assist the Dandenong RSL to refurbish the memorial, installing a new flagpole and erecting two new storyboards.”
The Centenary of Anzac will be Australia’s most significant period of commemoration.
During the centenary, Australians will not only remember the Anzacs, but also pay tribute to all men and women who have served Australia in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.