Anzac Centenary grants announced

Families and communities across the state will be able to commemorate local events significant to the First World War, with funding through the Queensland Government’s Anzac Centenary Community Grants Program.

Minister Assisting the Premier on the commemoration of the Anzac Centenary Glen Elmes said 86 projects have received $1.8 million in the second round of the $13.5 million program to recognise local contributions to Australia’s First World War effort.

“The Queensland Government is providing funding up to $80,000 for individual projects to commemorate Australia’s involvement in the First World War,” Mr Elmes said.

“This was a traumatic time in our state’s history and this funding allows communities to commemorate significant events and preserve them for future generations.

“I urge all Queenslanders to support their local Anzac commemorations as a way of acknowledging their community’s place in Queensland’s military history.

“It’s very pleasing to see regional communities come together to tell personal stories that engage and educate future generations on the efforts and sacrifice made by individuals and communities in a significant period of our nation’s history.

“Projects funded through the program will make a meaningful contribution to Queensland’s collective historical memory of the First World War.

“I’ve been impressed with the projects that are already underway through round one of the Anzac Centenary grants program.

“Some communities are producing exhibitions to honour service men and women, while others have staged colourful events which reflect the experiences of soldiers and their families, and others are focused on research.”

Mr Elmes said the Anzac Centenary grants program was an important commemorative initiative to assist communities in a time of reflection, honour and remembrance between 2014-2018.

Further information about the grants program and other Queensland Anzac Centenary commemoration initiatives can be found at: www.qld.gov.au/anzac100.

[ENDS] 7 November 2014

Media Contact: Peter McCarthy 0408 835 548