Do you know any Aboriginal service personnel from the Taree area?
The Taree RSL Sub-branch is asking locals to help them add missing names to the Taree War Memorial Clock.
The clock contains names of servicemen and women who lived in the 2430 postcode at the time they enlisted. This includes: Taree, Purfleet, Chatham, Tinonee, Cundletown, Hallidays Point, Lansdowne and Old Bar.
The clock is a focal point for Anzac Day celebrations in Taree. It’s important that it includes everyone who gave service in times of conflict. Unfortunately not all service personnel are represented on the memorial.
“It’s time to ensure our Aboriginal service personnel are rightly acknowledged for their service to our country,” said Taree RSL Sub-branch President, Charles Fisher.
“Having their names added to the monument is one way we can provide that recognition. Our aim is to have the names in place for our ANZAC Service in 2024.”
Local Biripi Elder Ray Saunders has been tracking down names.
“Existing memorials such as the one at the Marrangbah Cottage Aged Respite Centre in Purfleet and Manning Gardens School have provided a useful source of names, but we also need the help of our community,” said Mr Saunders.
Ray Saunders is helping the RSL with their search, along with MidCoast Stories local volunteers and experienced researchers Janine Roberts and Penny Teerman.
