Four years ago members of the society realised that the centenary of World War I was approaching and they took on the task of gathering information on the local people who enlisted. At the book launch Society president Truda Newman said the following people were instrumental in the completion of this task: Vic Galvin, Nerida Hoy, Jillian Oppenheimer, Bob Walsh and Ruth Watson.

“These people spent uncountable hours researching war records, family histories, birth, death and marriage records and the internet looking for details,” Mrs Newman said.

“Much additional information was provided by descendants, many of whom were able to provide photos.”

Walcha mayor Janelle Archdale officially launched the book and spoke abut her father who, having signed a 50 year confidentially agreement (unbeknownst to the family) never spoke of the war until its expiration in the 1990s when he was interviewed by researchers in the National War Memorial in Canberra.

All the men and women who had a strong connection to Walcha and enlisted are mentioned in the book along with the relevant portion of each person’s war record and family connections and photos if available.

As well as the volunteers who served, those who enlisted but did not serve for whatever reasons are also included and while the war ended in 1918 the book covers until the end of 1919 as many of those wounded or held as prisoners of war did not return home until 1919 or later.

The book will be available from the Walcha Newsagent for a cost of $40 from next week.