A new Cenotaph and quiet reflection space has been unveiled, just in time for ANZAC Day.
The 3.4m Cenotaph had its official dedication service at Bli Bli’s Avenue of Honour, providing the community with a focal point for commemorating those who have served their country in war, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
RSL Sunshine Coast and Regional District president Ian Hall said it was a significant occasion to officially open the new Cenotaph.
“We’re very grateful for the support we’ve received from government as well as the local community towards establishing a memorial within the community’s Avenue of Honour,” he said.
“This monument will be a meaningful and timely reminder for the community, placing an emphasis on the importance of commemorating veterans who have served past and present.”
Local architect and sculptor Cam Crossley was engaged to design and build the Cenotaph.
Among those in attendance at the event were RSL Queensland CEO Robert Skoda, Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson, Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien, Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez and Halcyon Veterans Group.
Student representatives from local schools Good Samaritan Catholic College and Bli Bli State School were also at the unveiling.
The national anthem was sung by the choir of the nearby Halcyon Lakeside retirement village.
RSL Sunshine Coast and Regional District received funding last year for the Cenotaph, including $109,680 from the federal government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program, and an additional $59,000 in Capital Works Funding from Sunshine Coast Council.
Cr Suarez said council was pleased to partner with the RSL to deliver the project.
“It’s great to see the completion of the new Cenotaph, which complements the Avenue of Honour commemorating the historical conflicts and peacekeeping events in which Australian servicemen and servicewomen participated,” she said.
“Twenty-six fig trees with bronze plaques now line the avenue serving as a ‘living memorial’.
“Not only is it a place people can commemorate our fallen soldiers, but it’s also now a place which connects two communities from Bli Bli and Parklakes where they can come together for ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day.”
Mr O’Brien said he was delighted with the project.
“The Cenotaph is a wonderful addition to the Avenue of Honour and provides a new focal point for the local community to remember those who have served, and who continue to serve our great nation,” he said.
“Our nation owes a debt to the men and women who have been prepared to serve and sacrifice for our freedom and this monument will be a lasting reminder for the people of Bli Bli and beyond.”
An ANZAC Day service will be held at the Cenotaph at 9am on April 25.
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