A Mother’s Day moment of remembrance

RESIDENTS are invited to attend a short Mothers’ Day service at Alfredton’s Garden of the Grieving Mother to remember special mums who have passed or were bereaved following military conflicts.

The commemorative event is facilitated by the Arch of Victory – Avenue of Honour committee, and takes place at the memorial statue adjacent to the Arch.

The committee’s president, Garry Snowden is pleased the service can run this year at 10am on Sunday, 9 May, welcoming the public to leave floral or more unique tributes which respectfully acknowledge and celebrate the strength of mothers in their lives, or those who have passed.

“Due to the COVID lockdown, we were unable to offer a service last year, although the floral tributes left at the statue during the day indicate that many Ballarat citizens visited the Garden,” he said.

“It seems that a visit to the Grieving Mother statue is becoming a Mother’s Day tradition in Ballarat, which is very gratifying to observe.

“But this year, for those who wish to attend, there will be a short but moving commemorative service at the statue.”

Mr Snowden said the commemoration will not be in the military-style people may expect but explore the “anxieties and grief” many mums have experienced in their lives, whether directly impacted by war, or not.

“I invite and encourage people to visit the site and leave a tribute to a special mother.

“The tribute doesn’t need to be an expensive wreath. Maybe something made by the children or grandchildren, or a bunch of flowers from a home garden,” he said.

“It’s not what it is but what it stands for that is most important. I’d love to see the base of the statue covered with flowers.”