PREPARATIONS for observing the centenary of World War I are under way, with organisers hoping an event on August 10 will generate greater awareness of Bacchus Marsh’s involvement in the conflict.
The Great War Centenary Committee event will feature speakers including former premier Ted Baillieu, Ballarat MP Catherine King, state MPs Don Nardella and David O’Brien, and state RSL president Major-General David McLachlan.
The feats of Australian diggers in battles such as Gallipoli, Fromelles, Pozieres, Beersheba and Villers-Bretonneux will be recognised as part of a program of events from 2014-2018. Moorabool celebrations will commemorate the centenary of the planting of the Avenue of Honour in 1918.
Next month’s awareness day will include audio-visual and photographic displays, artworks, memorabilia, re-enactments and activities for children. There will also be poetry readings, a sausage sizzle, speeches and presentations.
Creswick Light Horse Troop secretary Eddie Koene said members will honour the group’s history.
“They’ll be wearing their uniforms… and they’re always happy to talk and answer questions.”
St Bernards Primary School pupils are preparing artworks as part of an Avenue of Honour project.
“We were also excited to hear that the only woman represented in the Avenue of Honour [Kathleen Rogers] was a teacher at St Bernards school,” principal Emilio Scalzo said.
Bacchus Marsh Great War Centenary Awareness Day observances will be held at Bacchus Marsh Town Hall, Lerderderg library and the RSL hall from 10am-4pm on August 10. Details: 0417 339 795.
