Following removal of the three memorial walls surrounding the Echuca Cenotaph for safety reasons in September 2019, Campaspe Shire Council has advised it is continuing to work with the Echuca RSL Sub-branch around a replacement.
Mayor Chrissy Weller said Council staff and the RSL have held a number of meetings to progress the project and will shortly appoint a suitably qualified designer to review the space and come back with recommendations.
“We would like to assure the community that the plaques are securely stored and while not accessible to view at present, the focus of the project is to ensure the information is not lost and is reinstated within the precinct,” Cr Weller said.
“The design work will ensure we have a clear vision of what is planned for the area which will inform the overall project costs.
“As funding opportunities are announced, we want to be ready to apply. This work is critical to support any future funding application.”
Since removal of the memorial walls a number of approaches have been made to the RSL and Council from residents and visitors wanting to view the plaques or know their whereabouts.
Echuca RSL Sub-branch President Denis Shanahan also wanted to assure the community that his organisation was very much aware of the importance of the memorial.
“Memorials are intended to remind us of the people who served in and died as a result of war and this project will ensure the community has a place to reflect on that service,” Mr Shanahan said.
“We will continue to work in partnership with Council to get a good outcome for the community.
“As the project is progressed, the community will be updated.”
