Two new flagpoles will be installed at the Jamberoo School of Arts to commemorate Australia’s veterans thanks to $2000 funding from the Albanese Government’s Saluting Their Service (STS) Commemorative Grants Program.
The flagpoles will be erected by Kiama Municipal Council which is one of 91 community organisations that will share in $1.68 million funds for projects that pay tribute to those who have served in our nation’s uniform.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the Hon Matt Keogh MP said local monuments and commemorative activities were a vital part of making sure the stories of service and sacrifice of local legends lived on for generations.
“This funding will ensure our military history is accessible, helping Australians to engage with veterans’ stories,” he added.
Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has welcomed the funding announcement after recently joining with the Kiama-Jamberoo RSL Sub-branch and Jamberoo community for the Jamberoo ANZAC Day march and service.
“It was easy to see how important it is for this community to remember local lives lost, and to honour veterans and serving defence members,” Mrs Phillips said.
“I’m really pleased these new flagpoles will play a significant role in commemorations for the Jamberoo community.
"These innovative projects funded by the Albanese Government will ensure the stories of veterans from our community are remembered for decades to come.
“I’m proud that the Government is committed to recognising and commemorating all veterans and their families, both past and present.
“I know our community has a strong desire to recognise local veterans, so I encourage everyone with an idea for a commemorative project to apply to the current grant round.”
Kiama Councillor Stuart Larkins has been campaigning for the new flagpoles.
“I’m really pleased to see this funding provided to Kiama Municipal Council for installing additional flagpoles at the Jamberoo School of Arts building,” Cr Larkins said.
“Both Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma and I have advocated in council on behalf of the Jamberoo community, including the Jamberoo Ratepayers and Residents Association, for funding and the installation of additional flag poles which will benefit ANZAC Day and other memorial services in Jamberoo
“I’m very thankful for the Australian Federal Government and Fiona Phillips MP in supporting this request.”
The ongoing Saluting their Service Commemorative Grants Program delivers Community Grants up to $10,000 and Major Grants up to $150,000 with the current round open until 20 June 2024.
Minister Keogh said, with the 25th anniversary of INTERFET coming up in September, and the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War next year, now was the perfect time to develop innovative projects that paid tribute to all those who have served and continue to serve our nation.
To find out more or apply visit the Saluting Their Service Grants Program website.
Photo: Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips is pleased that flagpoles will soon be erected at the Jamberoo School of Arts after taking part in the town’s ANZAC Day march.
ENDS:
12 June, 2024
MEDIA CONTACT:
Katrina Condie 0437 662 967
