The Shoalhaven-based Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group is among 36 organisations across Australia that will share in more than $575,000 of funding under Batch 2 of the 2024-25 Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program.
Thanks to the Albanese Government’s support for this project, the Gilmore community will now be able to better honour the sacrifices of local veterans, as well as educate residents about local stories of service.
The Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group is one of 36 organisations across Australia that will share more than $575,000 of funding through this round of the program.
This will support 30 community-based projects and six major initiatives across Australia, all aimed at commemorating Australia’s veterans and families as well as promoting and preserving Australia’s wartime heritage.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said the grants were are not just about preserving history – they’re about strengthening the relationship between local communities and the legacy of our veteran community.
“The diverse submissions reflected the many stories of Australia’s service personnel, and the communities committed to preserving their legacy,” he said.
“The 36 projects share a common goal: to ensure veterans’ and families’ stories are shared and continue to resonate with Australians of all ages.”
Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips said the $10,000 funding would assist the Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group to create an art exhibit featuring the 42 Australian service personnel awarded with the United States Silver Star.
“This is a wonderful exhibition that will to be showcased at two galleries in the Shoalhaven,” she said.
“I congratulate chairman Rick Meehan OAM and the Keith Payne VC Vetrans Benefit Group for their ongoing support of our veterans and their families here in the Shoalhaven and right across the country.
“I’m always so pleased to see organisations going above and beyond to pay tribute to those who have served from our community.”
Mrs Phillips said the Saluting their Service program played a key role in ensuring the ongoing service and sacrifices made by Australian service people and their families were recognised and remembered.
“This is fantastic news and I am really looking forward to seeing the exhibition recognising Australians that have been awarded The Silver Star, the third-highest military combat decoration that can be awarded by the United States.
“The South Coast has a deep connection to Defence and a proud service history, and I’m proud to part of a Labor Government that is making sure Australia’s veterans get the recognition they deserve.”
For more information visit the Saluting their Service Grants Program website
Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips with Keith Payne VC Vetrans Benefit Group chairman Rick Meehan OAM.
