Bacchus Marsh Great War centenary committee secretary Geoff Threlfall made a tree change from Melbourne’s northern suburbs 17 years ago and, as he tells Laura Michell, he’s never looked back.
What’s your connection to Bacchus Marsh?
I moved here in 1999 from the northern suburbs of Melbourne to be closer to my children and grandchildren.
I became a member of the RSL as I’m an ex-serviceman.
I also work at Bacchus Marsh hospital as an electrician.
What’s your favourite thing about living in Bacchus Marsh?
It has a bit of a country feel to it without being too far from facilities.
It’s midway between Melbourne and Ballarat and is a central place with a small-town feel, although it’s getting bigger.
What would you change about the area if you could?
There’s not much I’d want to change. We would need more infrastructure before there are more residential developments.
Where’s your favourite place to hang out in Bacchus Marsh?
There isn’t really a favourite place, but Lerderderg Gorge and Lerderderg park are nice, and Maddingley oval where the football club is is a nice spot to walk the dog.
Tell us about the Bacchus Marsh Great War centenary committee.
The committee was formed in 2013 and comprises various people with an interest in World War I from the RSL, the historical society and the Avenue of Honour.
We formed a committee to carry out events in Bacchus Marsh over the four years of the centenary of World War I.
We’ve carried out events to mark the centenary of the battle of Gallipoli and next year we’ll mark the centenary of the Victoria Cross being awarded to Rupert Moon, who was born in Bacchus Marsh.
We hope the celebrations will culminate in a re-enactment of the planting of the Avenue of Honour.
We want to involve as many school children as possible.
More details: www.bmgwcc.com
