Tuesday, 2 May 2023

Anzac Day

Bev McARTHUR (Western Victoria) (14:45): Last week I was honoured to attend and speak at the Anzac commemoration event at the recreational reserve in Maroona in my electorate. I joined the small community, including students from Maroona Primary School, to pay tribute to all who have fought for our safety and freedom, many of whom gave their lives. I was especially pleased to meet Kerrin Gellie, who presented me with two carefully researched and beautifully presented volumes recalling the military careers of local men and the history of the soldier settlement on the Burrumbeep estate. Shared commemorations like Anzac Day bring small communities together, creating a sense of identity and belonging which matters so much. In researching and writing Soldiering On and Maroona Remembers, Kerrin has performed an extraordinary task, working with friends, neighbours and indeed all of Maroona to document the lives of their brave forebears and to teach current and future generations the story of their sacrifice. I congratulate Kerrin on his efforts and thank the community for inviting me to celebrate the solemn but beautiful occasion with them.