Gosnells residents can honour those who served in conflicts from World War II onwards with the construction of a commemorative wall of remembrance.
The wall, which was being built at Lewis homestead in Lissiman Street, would replace an existing avenue of trees memorial that had been damaged over time.
While the original memorial had been dedicated to World War II veterans the new memorial would include space for the names of veterans who had served in later conflicts provided they lived in or were born in the City of Gosnells.
The project was an initiative of Kenwick rotary club in partnership with the Gosnells RSL, Gosnells community men’s shed and Amaroo care services.
Funding was provided by the federal government through a centenary of Anzacs grant and a City of Gosnells history and heritage grant.
Project coordinator Steve Weychan from Kenwick rotary club said the project began out of a need to replace the existing memorial.
“The avenue of trees was planted 20 years ago by my rotary club as part of a federal government campaign called Australia remembers, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II,” he said.
“At the base of every tree there are small plinths engraved with the names of Gosnells residents who served in World War II.
“Since then many of the plaques have come off the plinths and some have been stolen or driven over.”
He said it was impossible to repair or properly replace the plaques so the club decided to build a wall and open it up to other local veterans, whether they were living or deceased.
“Most memorials only include the names of those who died but this will be open to those who are still living as well,” he said.
“It’s important that we recognise them too because they’ve still made sacrifices and they’re still coming back with things like post traumatic stress disorder.
“It’s important for people who may have an eligible family member to contact us because they may not get another opportunity like this one.”
Mr Weychan said each nomination would be examined by the club to ensure the nominee was eligible.
He also said the club would request a $100 contribution from the nominator, which would cover the cost of the engraved plaque containing the nominee’s details.
Nominations closed on September 15.
The commemorative wall of remembrance would be opened on remembrance day this year.
For more information or to submit a nomination call Mr Weychan on 0417 184 090 or email sweychan@bigpond.net.au.
