VETERANS' GRANTS IN PATERSON
Veterans and ex-service people in Paterson and surrounds will benefit from Federal Government funding to local veterans’ organisations to commemorate past and present service, Federal Member for Paterson, Bob Baldwin said today.
Mr Baldwin said four organisations in Paterson and surrounds would receive a grant under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ Saluting Their Service programme.
“I congratulate Dungog and Forster-Tuncurry RSL Sub-branches as well as the Korea War Veterans Association NSW and the 450 Squadron RAAF Association on their successful applications”, Mr Baldwin said.
“Saluting Their Service grants aim to highlight the service and sacrifice of Australia’s servicemen and women in wars, conflicts and peace operations.
“The grants also promote appreciation and understanding of the role that those who have served have played in shaping the nation.
“Saluting Their Service provides opportunities for communities, organisations and individuals to take an active role in commemoration and to ensure that the service of today’s Australian Defence Force is properly recognised.
The following organisations in Paterson and surrounds will receive:
|
Organisation |
Funding |
Funding for |
|
450 Squadron RAAF Association – RAAF Williamtown |
$4000 |
Restore the 450 Squadron RAAF War Memorial at Williamtown and install a memorial plaque depicting a brief history of the Squadron. |
|
Dungog RSL Sub-branch |
$1260 |
Clean and restore the Dungog First World War Memorial |
|
Forster Tuncurry RSL Sub-branch |
$4000 |
Restore the memorial wall located at the entrance to the Forster-Tuncurry RSL Club |
|
Forster Tuncurry RSL Sub-branch |
$3000 |
Install an illuminated glass display cabinet in the foyer of Club Forster to display wartime memorabilia. |
|
Korea War Veterans Association NSW |
$3200 |
Install a plaque on war memorials in each of the towns of Bulahdelah, Tea Gardens, Stroud, Forster and Tuncurry to commemorate all who fought in the Korean War. |
Mr Baldwin said these grants will enable appropriate acknowledgement and respect for the roles played by men and women from our local community who are serving or have served our nation.
“However, I am concerned that funding cut backs at the Australian War Memorial, in particular, may jeopardise commemorations at a national level.
“The Australian War Memorial’s touring exhibitions and school holiday programmes, as well as preparations for commemorating the Centenary of Anzac, are at risk because of Labor’s reckless spending and budget cuts to the Australian War Memorial”, Mr Baldwin said.
