Commemorative evening for local aviator

ANZAC Day may have passed, but some people aren’t through commemorating their local World War One servicemen.

On Wednesday, 4 May, the community is invited to attend a free presentation at Inverleigh Public Hall that will celebrate the life and legacy of Lieutenant John Clifford ‘Cliff’ Peel.

An Inverleigh local, Lieutenant Peel served as an aviator in the Australian Imperial Force, and is credited with the idea of delivering medical aid across Australia via plane, inspiring the development of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

The event is a joint collaboration between the Western Front Association’s Central Victorian branch and the Inverleigh Historical Society, and secretary Christine Windle said it will provide an informative evening for the community.

“It’s a great thing to share the story of someone whose made such a contribution with today’s generations who may not have heard about it,” she said.

“We’re hoping that quite a lot of people come along and learn something about an important of Inverleigh’s military history.”

Beginning at 7pm, the event will comprise a light supper and an informative presentation by WFA members Steve Warner and Rob Wight alongside projected photos and maps.

The pair will speak about Lieutenant Peel’s war experiences and the impact of his correspondence with RFDS founder Reverend John Flynn.

Local Peel family members will be in attendance, and Ms Windle said although the event is “not an opening night,” people will be welcome to peruse the Historical Society’s WWI records.

Ms Windle is urging attendees to book in advance, and said the presentation is a great way to honour the efforts of an Inverleigh local.

“’Cliff’s’ legacy is one of great initiative. It’s one thing to think something’s a good idea, but he carefully worked out ways that would enable that good idea to come to fruition,” she said.

“It’s really important to learn about the past through personal stories, not just facts. They help to inform us on how we live our lives now and into the future.”

To book, call Ms Windle at 0403 267 286.