The dedication by Kevin Anderson of the new memorial at the Cenotaph ranks as one of the most important and poignant functions I have been involved in since becoming Mayor.
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This was the culmination of around seven years work by the Walcha RSL Sub Branch and the finished product is a credit to all involved, most notably local sculptures Steve King and James Rogers. Anyone who has not seen this, it is well worth viewing by day, but with it lit of a night it is also spectacular.
The securing of the funds by General Manager Jack O'Hara and Local Member Kevin Anderson MP to top up the local fundraising efforts by the Sub Branch made this possible.
The brass plaques that were unveiled pay credit to all involved in this process, and while their contribution is crucial, it is the names that are yet to placed on the columns that are at the real heart of this monument. The women and men whose names will grace these columns have offered so much, and sometimes all, to Australia, and behind everyone of these names is a family that lived or still lives a battle back home and their story is also a vital part of this memorial.
it is the names that are yet to placed on the columns that are at the real heart of this monument.
- Eric Noakes
What appears to be an ever increasing number of people at Walcha's ANZAC ceremonies must be rewarding to those who wear their medals on their left side. Though most of us don't understand this honour, to stand as one with them on this day is a fitting tribute to their commitment and sacrifice. Lest We Forget.
I know the Walcha Show was a few weeks ago but the Show Committee deserves recognition for a fantastic accomplishment in a dry time. A few things came together to make this work and a large crowd had every opportunity to enjoy themselves.
The return of the wood chop cannot be sold short in this success. The skill and talent of these women and men enthralled a large crowd and Allan and Megan Scrivener who largely organised this event deserve much of the credit.
From conversations I had apparently Allan knew Megan was the girl for him when she could carry his axe box containing three axes at the Brisbane Exhibition. May be something in that for those looking for a spouse.
While on the subject of the Showground the new Function Centre is taking shape and will offer a great venue for social events. A project derived from the drought it will be a lasting memorial to a trying time.
