Shire seeks funds to complete Walk of Honour

THE Surf Coast Shire will seek federal government funding to complete a Winchelsea Walk of Honour, with memorial cairns saluting service men and women.

The council allocated $50,000 towards the project as part of its 2018-19 budget and will seek $110,000 from the government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorations Program.

The Walk of Honour, at Memorial Park flanking the Barwon River, will add two cairns beside a World War I memorial cairn installed in 2016.

The new cairns will acknowledge involvements of Winchelsea service men and women in World War II and other conflicts.

They will also commemorate Australian Victoria Cross recipients from the conflicts, giving the monuments state and national significance.

Winchelsea ward councillor Heather Wellington said the project had been driven by a passionate community for several years.

“This is such a meritorious project and means so much to the people of Winchelsea.

“It is important that the district’s distinguished military history is commemorated in this way, and I hope the Australian Government will support realising of the community’s vision.”

Fellow ward councillor Carol McGregor said the memorial park and its existing cairn had become focal points for residents and visitors.

“Completion of the Walk of Honour would further enhance the area, Winchelsea’s identity and visitor experience.

“This project links with plans for establishment of an all-abilities access river loop walk and Council has already invested significantly in beautifying the park and streetscape.”

Community members gathered last month for the opening of the $454,180 first stage of the council’s Winchelsea Township Beautification Project.