State starts and finishes funding for Avenue of Honour

Published Thursday, 13 June, 2013 at 08:30 AM

Minister for Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience
The Honourable David Crisafulli

The Newman Government is pitching in up to $25,000 to finish the Yungaburra Avenue of Honour in North Queensland to pay tribute to the nation’s fallen from the war in Afghanistan.

Local Government Minister David Crisafulli said when he heard earlier this week that the memorial still needed money to complete it, he wanted to do what he could.

“We kicked off the funding for the memorial with $30,000 last year, and we’re proud to help finish the job with the last contribution,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“Gordon Chuck and his family have done everything they could to bring this vision to reality.

“Every day we do our best to give Queenslanders’ value for their money, and this memorial is no exception.

“It will not just be for servicemen and women and their families, but for all Australians who want to honour the sacrifices made in Afghanistan to keep this country safe.

“The Newman Government is proud to do its bit to remember them.”

The Avenue of Honour, which will open on 22 June, is the vision of Gordon and Susan Chuck, the parents of Australian Commando Ben Chuck who was killed in action in Afghanistan on 21 June, 2010.  

“This isn’t specifically about us or our son,” Mr Chuck said.

“It’s more about everything that Ben represented as a proud Australian soldier.

“It’s a reminder of the sacrifices that are continually being made so we can all enjoy and retain the things that we hold so dear and yet so easily take for granted.

“I feel the presence of those amazing young men when I’m at the Avenue.”

Member for Barron River Michael Trout said he was proud of the State’s latest contribution and applauded the infrastructure manufactured for the Avenue of Honour by local company, Elefantus.

“The end result is magnificent,” Mr Trout said.

“The memorial is a fitting tribute to the strength and courage of our troops, both alive and fallen. 

“Notwithstanding the goal is reached and the resplendent Avenue of Honour is complete, as with any such public monument and grounds, there will be significant ongoing expenses.

“I urge all those who visit and gain solace or inspiration from this amazing site to contribute in some way to its upkeep in recognition of our fallen heroes.”

[ENDS] 13 June 2013

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