CHESTER PRESENTS NEW AUSTRALIAN FLAG TO STRATFORD PRIMARY
April 3, 2009
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester attended the final assembly before school holidays today at Stratford Primary School, presenting a new Australian flag and announcing funding for an upgrade to the school’s Memorial Garden.
Mr Chester was impressed by the knowledge of the students who were asked questions about the significance of the national symbol.
“The students knew about the main features and values associated with the Australian flag which is good because it represents important history of the nation,” Mr Chester said.
“Our next generation of community leaders will come from primary schools around the region and they need to be taught Australian culture for the benefit of the future.”
Mr Chester said he was pleased the Federal Government has pledged $4,000 to install pavers at Stratford Primary’s Memorial Garden to commemorate veterans from the area who served in wars and conflicts.
The funding is part of the Government’s Saluting Their Service grant program to help communities across the nation honour and commemorate Australia’s wartime history.
The program will provide more than 170 organisations with funding for projects that honour Australia’s wartime heritage in the lead up to Anzac Day.
“It is important we remember those who participated in national service throughout our history and it’s great that we are able to commemorate them at Stratford Primary School,” he said.
“Our servicemen and women helped shape Australia and in doing so they ensured the future for the following generations of the nation.
“Hopefully children of all schools throughout Gippsland will commemorate our wartime heritage on Anzac Day.”