Truss announces $25,000 to commemorate Anzac troop train re-enactment
16th September, 2014
Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss, today announced $25,000 in Federal Government funding to support a project commemorating the service and sacrifice of Australians during the First World War. “Maryborough RSL will receive funding for an Anzac troop train re-enactment in 2015,” Mr Truss said.
“The troop train will carry 225 veterans and their families, as well as schoolchildren and teachers, between Winton and Brisbane, stopping at Maryborough and Gympie and many other towns along the way.
“It is expected that the train will depart Winton on 20 April 2015 and arrive at Brisbane Central station on 24 April, so all passengers can attend the Dawn Service at Anzac Square.
“Local RSLs and veteran service organisations will have the opportunity to participate in troop train activities as the train stops in their town.
“This project also presents a valuable opportunity to involve younger people in the history of Anzac and preserve our history for generations to come,” Mr Truss said.
“This project will receive a total of $130,000 of federal funding. The re-enactment has received support from my Federal Parliamentary colleagues, the Member for Maranoa, Hon Bruce Scott MP whose committee recommended $25,000, the Member for Capricornia, Mrs Michelle Landry MP whose committee recommended $30,000, and the Member for Flynn, Mr Ken O’Dowd, whose committee recommended $50,000. The funds will be used to meet the cost of commissioning the train and building a website to take bookings.
“The funding has been provided through the Australian Government’s Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program. The program supports Anzac commemorations through local projects that will help to preserve the stories of servicemen and women for generations to come,” Mr Truss said.
“The troop train re-enactment complements many other commemorative activities that are being planned in communities in Wide Bay to recognise the Centenary of Anzac.
“I would like to thank my Electorate Committee who assisted in the assessment of Anzac Centenary project proposals.”
The Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program is part of the Australian Government’s Anzac Centenary program. For more information visit the website www.anzaccentenary.gov.au.
