Today’s official dedication and unveiling of a war memorial at Claremont marks an important chapter in Tasmania’s military history.
The remembrance monument at the Windermere Community Foreshore Park is an initiative of the Claremont Returned and Services League sub-branch and has been supported by all tiers of government.
I was honoured to speak at the unveiling and am delighted to have played a part in realising the RSL’s vision for the memorial, having secured $45,000 in funding towards its establishment, as a 2014 State election promise for my electorate of Denison.
$33,000 was also sourced through the Federal Government’s Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program and the Glenorchy City Council assisted the RSL as well.
The area has a significant military past and was where the majority of Tasmanians who enlisted in WW1 trained, at an Army base called Claremont Camp, where up to 2,000 soldiers were stationed at any one time.
The design of the monument, which includes three pillars with the badges of the Army, Navy and Airforce, is a fitting tribute to honour the memory of those who trained at Claremont Camp and all Tasmanians who served in WW1, many of whom tragically did not return home.
The completion of the Claremont War Memorial is particularly pertinent given the Centenary of Anzac, marking 100 years of service and sacrifice of Australian service-men and women in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Memorials such as this play an important part in ensuring future generations reflect upon the immeasurable contribution made by our service personnel.
Lest we forget.
Elise Archer, Speaker of the House of Assembly Liberal Member for Denison
