A memorial garden honouring Morwell’s servicemen and women will be established in the grounds of the new Morwell Central Primary School.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester today announced Morwell RSL Sub-branch would receive $2,400 from the Federal Government to build the garden.
“It is terrific to see the Morwell RSL working with the school community to remember and honour the sacrifice of those who served in the armed forces,” Mr Chester said.
“The garden is a great way to teach our children about wartime history and will become a focus for the school community on special days of commemoration, particularly on ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day.”
Morwell RSL Sub-branch President Bruce Jeffrey said the new garden would include a small pine tree propagated from the Lone Pine planted in front of the Australian War Memorial.
“There will also be a bronze plaque mounted on a granite plinth honouring the men and women who served in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” Mr Jeffrey said.
“We’ve created a few memorials like this at our local schools and it’s helped the RSL to build partnerships and awareness among the younger generation. We’re hoping this garden will be finished in time for a commemorative service on Remembrance Day in November.”
Morwell Central Primary School principal Justine Smyth said the school community encouraged the involvement of the local RSL.
“The garden will bring Australia’s military history to life for our students and be a reminder of the sacrifice that has been made over many years for their freedom,” Mrs Smyth said.
“The students have shown particular interest in the story behind the Lone Pine seedling and its connection to Gallipoli.”
The Morwell garden is one of 62 community projects from around Australia to receive funding under the Federal Government’s Saluting Their Service program.
For more information about the Saluting Their Service program, visit www.dva.gov.au/consultation-and-grants.
