Legacy hosts Grieving Mother service

A REFLECTION service is set for the statue of the Grieving Mother this Sunday.

The service is run by Ballarat Legacy and Legatee Ron Fleming said there are very few events that commemorate the “hidden collateral damages” sustained by families during wartime.

The Grieving Mother represents that ongoing damage.

“Symbolically, she is looking to the distant battlefield across the sea where our people have to travel,” Mr Fleming said.

This year’s service will feature verses of historical poetry and a keynote address from Legacy Honorary Secretary Peta Gillespie.

Legacy, established in 1927, is a charity caring for war veterans, families, and communities around Australia.

President of the Arch of Victory – Avenue of Honour Committee, Garry Snowden, said events like this are important to balance the remembrance of war impact.

“We commemorate service on the other side of the world but we must remember the impact back home… so often it ended in grief,” he said. “The Grieving Mother statue is a symbol of families.”

The event, and others organised by Legacy Ballarat, are leading up to the Annual Legacy Week Appeal, from September 1 to 7.

Legacy Week is an awareness-raising and fundraising period, known for the tokens of appreciation sold on Badge Day.

RSVP is requested for Sunday’s Grieving Mother service. Email [email protected] for more information or to organise to lay a wreath.

The service will be at the statue at the start of the Avenue of Honour from 2pm.