November 26, 2020
Goomeri’s famous town clock will be getting a companion soon, thanks to a $43,950 Federal Government grant.
The money will be used by the Murgon RSL Sub-Branch to erect a statue of a WWII digger to stand beside Goomeri’s Heritage-listed “Lest We Forget” Memorial Clock.
Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien unveiled the plan on Tuesday, when he announced the Sub-Branch had received funding for the project from the Federal Government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program.
“The statue will commemorate service personnel from Goomeri and the surrounding districts, and will be a strong visual reminder of their service,” Mr O’Brien said.
“This grant will ensure the people of Wide Bay continue to remember and acknowledge the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women during wartime, particularly the younger generation.”
Local residents and RSL members gathered in Goomeri’s Market Square nearby to thank Mr O’Brien.
He congratulated the Murgon RSL Sub-Branch and the Goomeri chapter for their work in ensuring the legacy of Australia’s war heroes was remembered, and their advocacy for veterans.
Murgon RSL Sub-Branch (Goomeri Chapter) deputy president David Pitstock said he expected the new statue would be erected in early 2021.
The Murgon RSL Sub-Branch was also presented with a special commemorative medallion marking the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II.
The medallions were produced to mark the anniversary on August 15, and are now available to every living WWII veteran in acknowledgment of their service.
“Almost one million Australians served in World War II, and Wide Bay was well-represented amongst them with local people taking significant roles in protecting our country,” Mr O’Brien said.
“These medallions are an acknowledgment of this remarkable generation of Australians who served our nation and ensures the people of Wide Bay can show their gratitude to those who have served from our region.”
WWII veterans, or their families on their behalf, can apply for the special medallion online or by phoning (02) 6191-8217.
