WANDONG is set to be home to a permanent historical display featuring a hut from World War Two.
Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell help secure a Federal Government grant of almost $50,000 for the Wandong Heathcote Junction Military History and Interpretive Centre.
Mr Mitchell said Wandong History Group would receive the grant of $49,985 to relocate, repair and restore a hut that will be used to create the centre.
“It is fantastic to see the continuing success of the small but incredibly dedicated group of volunteers in the Wandong History Group which will result in a wonderful historical asset for the district,” he said.
“The group has done an incredible job researching and identifying the men and women from Wandong-Heathcote Junction who served their country and collecting their stories and memorabilia.”
Wandong History Group president Karen Christensen said she was pleased to receive news the group’s application to the Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants program had been successful.
“This was our fourth attempt at a grant for the project so I’m so excited that this has come through,” Ms Christensen said.
“This is my bucket-list project to get done. It will provide a permanent and accessible home for our collection.”
Mrs Christensen said the Stanley hut was used as an internment hut during World War Two and was one of two currently in the district.
It had been kindly gifted to the group by the owners.
The grant will be used to relocate the hut to the memorial park and for major structural repairs, but much of the restoration work will be done by a small band of volunteers.
The group currently has about 20 members, with about half a dozen actively engaged.
Mr Mitchell congratulated the group, which was recognised late last year with a Heritage Council of Victoria Award for documenting the history of the area and preserving heritage in the region late last year.
In April Ms Christensen was one of five nationally to receive a 2020 RSL ANZAC of the Year award.
The Saluting Their Service Program aims to honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s service men and women in wars, conflicts and peace operations and to promote appreciation and understanding of the role those who served played in shaping the nation.
