$5,000 grant to commemorate Battle of Milne Bay

The Palaszczuk Government is supporting local community groups to honour Queensland’s military history, with a Chermside World War Two memorial centre set to receive a visual enhancement.

Attending a commemoration service to mark the 75^th Anniversary of the Battle of Milne Bay, Minister Cameron Dick welcomed the announcement that Ninth Battalions Association had received a $5,000 grant to commemorate this battle.

“The Queensland Government is helping communities reflect on 100 years since the First World War, as well as recognising other significant military anniversaries,” he said.

“I congratulate the Ninth Battalions Association on receiving this funding through the Queensland Anzac Centenary grants program.

“This grant will go towards designing, constructing and installing interpretive signage for a Battle of Milne Bay display at the Milne Bay Memorial Library and Research Centre in Chermside.”

Mr Dick said he was proud to be able to join the community at today’s service, as he had a personal connection to this battle.

“One of my great-uncles fought in the Battle of Milne Bay in what is now Papua New Guinea in1942, so I personally recognise the importance of honouring our brave servicemen and women.

“I commend and thank the Ninth Battalions Association on this worthwhile project.”

Member for Nudgee Leanne Linard welcomed this funding for new signage from the Queensland Government.

“Through this display, our community will be able to better understand this part of Queensland’s military history and the story of this battle will be preserved for generations to come.

“I look forward to seeing these engaging signs once they are installed and learning more about this significant battle.”

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the restoration was one of 16 projects across the state, awarded through round three of the Queensland Anzac Centenary Spirit of Service grants program.

“This small grants program offers funding of up to $20 000 to local not-for-profit organisations, RSLs and local councils,” Ms Palaszczuk said. 

“All of the successful projects focus on engaging communities and educating Queenslanders about our state’s role in the First World War and other significant military events.

“With round four of the Spirit of Service grants program now open, I encourage local groups to apply for small grants of up to $20,000.”

Round six of the Lasting Legacies grants program, offering grants between $20 001 and $80 000 to commemorate the Anzac legacy, is also open and will close 28 January 2018.

For more information, to apply for a grant, or for details on the successful grant projects visit www.qld.gov.au/anzac100

Media contact:

Premier's office: Kirby Anderson 0417 263 791

Minister Dick's office: Emma McBryde 0447 155 332