By PETER MALONEY
ON 11 MARCH the sun shone on Emerald.
The Emerald RSL and the Emerald community welcomed Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove and Lady Cosgrove to officially open the Anzac Walk and Anzac Place.
These two additions, together with the Statue of the Unknown Soldier, formed part of the RSL’s contribution to the 2015 Centenary of Anzac celebration.
All three are, I believe, wonderful places for reflection on the history of Australians in conflict, but especially our own Emerald people who have been involved over time.
To ensure these projects happened on time required quite a few dedicated and talented men, and their input as volunteers should be acknowledged.
Firstly, Russ Nielsen who designed all parts of the project and liaised continually with the Governor-General’s department, Geoff Spring who managed the project and liaised with government departments regarding funding, Kevin Alexander our ‘council man’ who ensured all infrastructure happened efficiently and effectively.
Finally, the two men who ensured the opening ceremony happened as planned, Tony Shovelton and Matt Collopy from Puffing Billy.
We formed a formidable team.
And, of course, local sculptor Ronnie Sexton for her magnificent statue.
These men, together with the Emerald RSL Committee, Puffing Billy Railway and the people, schools, businesses and community groups of Emerald, who embraced the occasion by dressing in period costume, combined to make this day one of the most memorable in the history of Emerald.
Many photos of the day can be viewed at emeraldrsl.com.au.
It should be noted that this event could not have happened without the Shire of Cardinia.
Thank you to Garry McQuillan and his team.
This year will certainly be a year to remember.
And I was a proud president of the Emerald RSL on that day Sir Peter came to town.
Emerald, take a bow.
