Community rally to mark Legacy Centenary

THE FLAME of Legacy burnt brightly over the weekend for the Geelong leg of the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay.

Community members came together and walked to celebrate Legacy’s 100 years of financial, emotional, social and developmental support for families affected by war.

The Geelong relay featured 31 official torch bearers, including Legacy beneficiaries, Legatees, defence personnel, Deputy Prime Minister and Corio MP Richard Marles, former AFL player Billy Brownless and Surf Coast Shire councillor Adrian Schonfelder.

The Geelong tour began at Johnstone Park at 10am and travelled 12.4km before culminating at the Steampacket Gardens with the lighting of the cauldron.

The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay started in Pozières France on April 23 and has travelled to Menin Gate, Belgium and onto London before arriving in Australia where it is undertaking a six-month journey visiting all Legacy Club locations around the country, before culminating in Melbourne.

Deputy Prime Minister and Corio MP Richard Marles said it was a joy to be involved in the event.

“Just as the Legacy Centenary Torch Relay has made its way around the world and Australia, it made its way to Geelong.

“It [was] an incredible privilege to take part in this event, right here in my hometown.”

Mr Brownless also threw his support behind the torch relays inspiring meaning.

“Legacy is based on a promise made in the trenches of the Western Front during World War I, when a dying soldier asked his mate to look after his missus and kids,” Brownless said.

“That is just so Australian and so important.

“People need to get behind Legacy and the torch relay.”

Mr Schonfelder said he felt very humbled to represent the Surf Coast at the local centenary celebration.

“It was just an absolutely amazing day.

“I have two relatives who died in WW1 and others who have been associated with Legacy for a long time.

“I have always had an interest in military history and have attended every ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day event in Winchelsea since I’ve been a councillor.

“I felt it was very important to be involved and look forward to heading to the final torch bearing event next month at the Shrine of Remembrance.”

The Legacy Centenary Torch Relay will wrap up at the Shrine of Remembrance on October 13.

For more, visit www.legacy.com.au/centenary/