The entrance gates to Laidley Anzac Park have been restored just in time for Anzac Day.
The iconic granite and marble monument underwent a major $10,000 renovation earlier this month after Council received funding from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ ‘Saluting Their Service’ Commemorative Grants Program.
Mayor Tanya Milligan said the repairs ensured the shrine would stand proudly and structurally sound for many years to come.
“It gives me such a great sense of pride to know that the entrance gates are once again befitting of the brave men and women whose names are etched into its pillars, and to have it finished in the weeks leading up to Anzac Day is perfect,” she said.
“Master stonemasons painstakingly repaired cracking and damage to the structure, removed and reattached the eight bronze plaques, pressure-washed the granite and marble components to remove staining around the base and rust marks, and stripped and repainted the render.
“Try as they may however, the stonemasons were unfortunately unable to remove rust from a portion of the honour rolls – and Council will look to have this fixed or replaced in the future if an opportunity for more funding arises.”
Unveiled along with the war memorial by the Governor of Queensland Sir Matthew Nathan on 15 February 1923, the gates were erected by residents of the Laidley district to honour the soldiers who offered their lives for their country during WW1.
Cr Milligan encouraged community members young and old to continue the time-honoured tradition of commemorating our veterans on Anzac Day.
“As a region, we pride ourselves on the support of Anzac Day events – highlighted in our well-attended marches,” she said.
“Coming along to a march or service teaches our next generation the importance of Anzac Day.
“Kids are the key to the future of Anzac Day, and we hope to see many of the Lockyer Valley’s youth on 25 April.”
For a full list of Anzac Day services and events across the Lockyer Valley, visit www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/anzac-day.
