On the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Beersheba (31 October 2017), soil was collected at seven sites in the Gunnedah Shire to contribute to the state-wide collection for the Anzac Memorial Centenary Project.

The Gunnedah Shire Council Anzac Working group selected the date given its significance in Australian history.

Many members of the 4th and 12th Light Horse Regiments came from the North West area of NSW and were part of the famous charge.

The project is the multi-million dollar redevelopment of NSW’s pre-eminent memorial to the contribution of NSW and Australian Veterans to the First World War in Hyde Park, Sydney. It will feature an artwork developed by artist Fiona Hall alongside Sydney architect Richard Johnson, displaying soil collected from approximately 1700 locations across NSW, to be completed next year.

“Soil was collected from Curlewis War Memorial, Emerald Hill Hall, Breeza War Memorial, Mullaley War Memorial, Carroll Public School, Tambar Springs Public School and the Kelvin Hall, and will be recognised with plaques and soil samples in the new Memorial,” Gunnedah Anzac Working Group Chair Owen Hasler said.

“It’s a significant moment in history and a proud moment for Gunnedah and the chosen villages. Descendants of soldiers who participated in World War I, school children and residents were invited to participate, which makes the occasion even more significant locally and acknowledged each district’s contribution to military operations.”

The Anzac Memorial Centenary Project is expected to be completed towards the end of 2018.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100