Just in time for ANZAC Day, Victorian communities are being given more opportunities to remember and honour veterans through various projects to build and repair memorials, preserve stories and ensure their wellbeing.

Minister for Veterans Robin Scott today announced $700,000 for 63 projects across the state as part of four grant programs: Victoria Remembers, Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour, the ANZAC Day Proceeds Fund and the 75^th Anniversary of the End of World War Two.

It includes $16,700 for the Buninyong RSL Sub-Branch for restoration works along the Cambrian Hill Avenue of Honour. The project will include installing individual plaques under each tree, installing interpretive signage and replanting two missing trees.

Ballarat’s Child and Family Services (CAFS) also received $4,100 of funding to refurbish the current interpretative sign at the Arthur Kenny Avenue of Honour which had been vandalised and impacted by harsh weather conditions

Further support is being directed to organisations Carry On and Melbourne Legacy to provide on-going welfare support – including emergency food supplies and food vouchers – amid the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic.

The Victorian Government has worked to ensure all funded projects comply with coronavirus restrictions, such as physical distancing.

Projects include:

• preservation work on the Buchan South Avenue of Honour War Memorial and the Heidelberg War Memorial
• a mural to be painted on a wall of the Charlton RSL to pay tribute to the Women’s Land Army
• construction of a gate and fence at the Yackandandah Memorial Gardens
• a public exhibition of wartime artist Napier Waller to be held by the National Trust of Australia
• a new display of four unique uniforms at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum

For more information about the successful grants, visit vic.gov.au/grants-support-and-commemorate-veterans.

Quote attributable to Minister for Veterans Robin Scott

“We owe it to our veterans to honour their legacy and preserve their stories for future generations – that’s even more important in these challenging times.”

Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“Forty names of men from Cambrian Hill are listed in war records, with thirteen killed. In 1917, the local community planted an Avenue of Honour on the road to Colac and it’s outstanding to see the Avenue now receive funding for its completion. Our veterans fought for our shared values as Victorians and these projects will ensure their memories live on.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“This is fantastic news for our community and for these organisations which have done such great work in preserving the legacy of our veterans. These grants will help to teach future generations about how our veterans’ sacrifices have led to the freedoms we enjoy today.”