Work to construct a place of remembrance at the Aboriginal section of the Walcha Cemetery is set to get under way soon.
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About 20 people attended a morning tea at the Walcha Ex-Services Club yesterday to go over plans and ask questions about the proposed building and landscaping.
Walcha Council’s director of environmental services Gerry Moran said the project had been progressing.
“The way the council and the community have worked together speaks volumes for us both,” he said. “This is a great project and we have worked hard for it and it’s been a joint effort from everyone including Jobs Australia, council, Amaroo and the Arts Council.”
Sculptor James Rogers said he first became involved about 15 months ago when he was invited to a meeting.
The 9 metre by 6 metre building for members of the community to gather and reflect on the lives of those laid to rest in the grounds will be situated in the south-west section of the cemetery and will align with sculptures already provided by Gordon Hookey.
The project will also acknowledge those those whose graves are no longer marked.
Mr Rogers said the internal shell of the building will be used for paintings and the large timber supports will be used to display carvings or text.
“The first steps are in process now,” he said, “and the steel brackets are being made.”
Jobs Australia Enterprises has committed labour and direct financial assistance to the project.
Jobs Australia Enterprises branch manager Noelene Brady said the participants who will be actively involved in the project are very passionate about creating a special place for reflection and rememberance.
“It will be a great place for future generations to connect with their ancestors,” she said.
“We anticipate that the first sod of earth will be turned within the next few weeks.
“The general public will be notified prior to this.”