I rise to acknowledge several community organisations in my electorate who have been awarded our government’s Armistice Grants to mark the Centenary of Armistice this November. Berowra RSL Sub-Branch members supported Mount Colah resident Scott Wilson to research and document 33 of the 41 names on the Berowra War Memorial, commemorating local service men and women who died in the First World War. Mr Wilson’s book, In Good Company, is a milestone contribution to our local history. I extend congratulations to former Berowra RSL Sub-Branch President Bob Dobson AFSM OAM on this project, and I acknowledge Vice President Frank Miles, Secretary Sandra Hawkins and her husband Ray.
Redfield College will establish a learning centre displaying First World War memorabilia. The centre will commemorate the sacrifice of Australian soldiers and inform students through artefacts and storytelling. The school will also host a presentation by historian Paul Martin on 12 November. I acknowledge Mark Anderson at Redfield, who spearheaded this project with invaluable help from librarian Justin Lockley.
The India Club are creating a digital honour board in remembrance of the Indian soldiers and Anzacs who fought together in Gallipoli. Congratulations to Shubha Kumar for drawing attention to the 15,000 Indians who fought with the allied troops at Gallipoli.
Hornsby RSL Sub-Branch will host an art exhibition to commemorate the Centenary of Armistice. I would like to acknowledge Terry James, the president of Hornsby RSL Sub-Branch, for leading this excellent remembrance event, along with a series of memorial services and events to mark the Centenary of Armistice.