Lakes Entrance RSL sub-branch will receive $11,819 from the Federal Government for two new cabinets to display its precious collection of World War One artefacts.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, who is also the Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC, today announced the Lakes Entrance RSL would receive the funding under the Armistice Centenary Grants Program.
“This money will help the Lakes RSL to build two floor-to-ceiling cabinets to hold some of its important relics from World War One,” Mr Chester said.
“Volunteers will research the artefacts to determine who they belonged to and where and when they were used. This information will be written on labels placed beside the items for visitors to read.
“Space is currently limited to a small display case, so new cabinets will enable more of the RSL’s collection of artefacts to be on show to help commemorate the end of the Great War.”
Memorabilia officer for the Lakes Entrance RSL Sub-Branch Peter Tunnage was thrilled by the news of the grant.
”This will enable the Lakes Entrance RSL to develop displays of East Gippsland’s war heritage that have not been possible before,” Mr Tunnage said.
“I want to thank the Department of Veterans Affairs and Mr Chester for making this possible.
“We will unveil the displays on November 11. Anyone who wants to come along is welcome to attend.”
Mr Chester said Gippsland had been allocated $50,000 to be shared among local organisations and community groups to help mark the 100th anniversary of the Armistice of the First World War.
“These grants are designed to support local projects and activities which appropriately acknowledge this important date in Australia’s history,” Mr Chester said.
“So far, seven organisations in Gippsland have been approved to receive grants under this program, including Lakes Entrance RSL sub-branch and Ensay/Swifts Creek RSL sub-branch, which will get more than $7000 for a First World War memorial at Reedy Flat.
“The response from the community to the Armistice Centenary Grants Program has been overwhelming and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs is working to process applications as soon as possible.”