9 March 2018

A local tribute concert to commemorate the service of Australian war veterans and those who served from the Gunnedah district has received a $1500 grant from the NSW Government.

The Gunnedah Anzac Working Group was recently notified of its successful Anzac Community Grant application, with the funds to be put towards the 2018 Pensioners Hill Centenary of Anzac Concert.

The concert will be held on Sunday, 22 April 2018 at Pensioners Hill prior to Anzac Day and will aim to educate those in attendance on the effects of war on both the individual combatants and associated service personnel and their families in a memorable event. The concert will be held from 4pm and will include three sessions (approximately 45 minutes to one hour each, with 20 minute intermissions).

Gunnedah Anzac Working Group Chair Owen Hasler said the concert will include performances of traditional war tunes by the national award-winning Gunnedah Shire Junior Band, well-known songs from the last century by students of the Gunnedah Conservatorium of Music, and war poetry readings and extracts from letters read by school students.

“As this will be the final Centenary of Anzac event to be held in Gunnedah, we are aiming to provide a memorable concert in order to recognise the fact that the devastating First World War, which dramatically affected many families in Gunnedah, concluded a century ago,” Mr Hasler said.

“The concert being held overlooking the town provides a fitting setting for this emotionally charged concert which will highlight the sorrow of war, but also the willingness to accept sacrifice and hardship in defence of our nation. It is seen as both an educational as well as a commemorative event, and will involve a large section of our community, both as performers and spectators.”

Rotary Club of Gunnedah West will fire up the barbecue and people are also encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy during the performances.

“We will have a four seater golf buggy to assist people to get to the top of the hill, and seating for approximately 250 people, however, we would encourage people to bring their own chairs as well. Lighting and port-a-loos will be on site,” Mr Hasler said.

Photo: Anzac Working Group Chair Owen Hasler.

ENDS

Media Contact: Ashley Gardner 6740 2100.