Queensland Online Register of War Memorials

Author: Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten - Contact: -
Published: 2009/04/21 - Updated: 2015/03/18
Topic: Disabled Veterans News - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: More than 1000 Queensland war memorials are being registered on a State Government website.

Introduction

More than 1000 Queensland war memorials are being registered on a State Government website launched today ahead of this year's ANZAC Day commemorations.

Main Item

Public Works Minister Robert Schwarten, who initiated the project, said the online register would further honor Queenslanders who fought for our country, and provide an excellent resource for historians.

"On Remembrance Day in November last year, the Queensland Government started developing this important archive with the goal of launching it by 25 April this year," Mr Schwarten said.

"Our aim was to collect information on every war memorial with local significance to a community, whether it is a cenotaph, statue, column, gate or memorial building.

"I am pleased to see that just five months later we have delivered on our commitment, with the user-friendly website launched in time for ANZAC Day.

"With the expert guidance of the RSL's Queensland branch, we have identified around 1200 war memorials for the Register.

"These are in various stages of development, with local Councils continuing to work hard at the grass roots level to compile community submissions.

"There are already 400 memorials publicly listed on the Register, and the website will continue to be expanded as further material is provided," he said.

RSL Queensland Branch State President Mr Doug Formby said the Queensland RSL is pleased to support the war memorial website.

"The RSL continues to arrange and encourage commemorations that acknowledge the service and sacrifice of our Servicemen and women. This initiative by the Queensland Government fits well with the RSL's endeavors," Mr Formby said.

Mr Schwarten said the Register included a wide range of information and images, providing details of locations, inscriptions and the conflicts commemorated.

"The project got a big kick-start with the material supplied by people such as 'Salute the Brave' authors Trevor and Shirley McIvor from Toowoomba," Mr Schwarten said.

"It has been an enormous task involving many groups and individuals putting in the hard yards to develop this online resource, and I thank everyone for their contributions."

Mr Schwarten said the Queensland Government was committed to protecting and restoring community memorials.

"Since 2004, the Government has spent nearly $3 million restoring more than 240 memorials across the state through the Community Memorials Restoration Program."

The Queensland war memorial register is available at www.qldwarmemorials.com.au