A newly designed Anzac memorial at Bundaberg State High School will be used for the first time at this year’s Anzac Day commemoration.
Principal Karen McCord said the $22,000 memorial had been installed during the last months of 2019.
“We had carefully considered a design concept prior to approaching local Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt for a grant to assist with the project,” she said.
“We were able to source $10,000 from a government grant and the school has provided the remaining $12,000.
“The location of the memorial adjacent to Maryborough Street ensures a very public view of the memorial.
“The work was undertaken by Higgins Contracting and we are thrilled with the completed project which incorporates design elements that reflect the Gallipoli story. School staff were also heavily involved in the creative aspects of the memorial.”
Ms McCord said special tiles with a wave-like finish and sandstone coloured blocks were indicative of the elements at ANZAC Cove where the Australian forces landed.
“We have introduced other elements such as 10 picture tiles of historic Gallipoli scenes. Another great feature are the bollards surrounding the memorial that are of a bullet or shell-like design and also the garden beds with their plantings of Rosemary.”
She said the memorial was located a short distance from the school’s Assembly Hall where the normal Anzac Day ceremony is observed.
“It’s our intention to live-stream the flag raising and wreath laying segments of our Anzac Day observance to students inside the building,” she said.
“It is very important that the traditional messages of courage, sacrifice and mateship are perpetuated.
“Students have a very strong understanding of Anzac Day and a very strong affiliation to its observance.”
Ms McCord said Bundaberg State High School was transitioning through a redesign and the new master plan would dovetail perfectly with the current placement of the school’s Anzac memorial.
Very proud of your school as I am a current returned veteran who has seen many current conflicts.
Served in the Army for 26 years, then another seven years in the Special Forces, got forced rtired after being hurt.