In line with the iconic words “At the going down of the sun…” contributors to a new memorial on the foreshore at Bargara will gather on Friday evening to participate in the unveiling of a new shrine to the fallen.
Community drive and passion, supported tangibly by funding from the Federal Government and Bundaberg Regional Council will culminate with the unveiling, blessing and consecration of the memorial dedicated to all services of the Australian Defence Forces.
Mayor Mal Forman said the Federal Government had supplied funding of almost $45,000 towards the project and this had been supported by Council with a grant of $15,000 and significant in kind assistance for the project.
“The memorial is simple in design and concept but one that I am certain will resonate with the community.
Cr Greg Barnes, Chair of the Bargara Commemorations Committee, the group driving the memorial project, said the centenary of the landing at Gallipoli was an appropriate moment in time for the new memorial to be dedicated.
“We didn’t advocate for a large structure that could dominate the foreshore location and the adopted concept blends ideally with the local environment and is situated in a wonderful spot that enables a meaningful connection between land and sea.”
“The Committee encourages the residents of the region to attend this very important and quite historic unveiling with the ceremony scheduled to commence at 5.30pm.
“I am sure there are numerous people with an interest in being a part of this ceremony on the eve of the centenary of the Gallipoli landing.”
Cr Barnes said the removable cast bronze sculpture – a battlefield grave marker comprised of an inverted .303 rifle supporting a fallen Digger’s slouch hat – is the centrepiece of the memorial and a piece of artwork that will relate the story of the ANZAC’s at times other than official commemorations.
“It has purposely been designed to be removed and packaged as an educational item to young Australians on the importance of the ANZAC legend.
“It is our hope that the sculpture will visit all corners of our community to enable the young especially to gain a clearer understanding of the importance of preserving the aura that surrounds ANZAC Day.”
Cr Forman supported Cr Barnes’ call for residents to attend the dedication ceremony.
“I would again issue an open invitation to the community across the region to attend this dedication ceremony. If anyone is unable to attend they may wish to attend its inaugural ANZAC Day observance on Saturday.”
ENDS