Frenchville Sports Club Unveils New Memorial Wall
Wednesday 1st November 2023
Frenchville Sports Club, in conjunction with RSL Rockhampton, today opened the much-anticipated Memorial Wall. This solemn monument will serve as a dedicated space for the community to reflect on the unwavering sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women for generations to come.
Frenchville Sports Club Chairman, Graeme Brady OAM, expressed his pride in facilitating the construction of this remarkable project. He extended heartfelt gratitude to the Saluting Their Service Grants Program and the Iwasaki Foundation for their support.
“The Memorial Wall, which forms part of Phase 1 of the Frenchville Sports Club Master Plan, embodies our commitment to fostering community spirit, elevating the sporting experience, and reflecting the ever-evolving needs and desires of our members.”
"We are immensely proud to provide our community with a lasting Memorial of such significance. This Memorial Wall stands as a tribute to the courageous individuals who have selflessly defended our nation, and we are honoured to be a part of it,” said Mr Brady OAM.
Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, said she was honoured to assist in the official opening of the new Memorial Wall at the Frenchville Sports Club.
“Through Round 2 of the Saluting Their Service program, I was able to deliver $10,000 for the Frenchville Sports Club to create a new memorial to honour those who have served our nation.”
“This program has ensured we continue to preserve Australia’s wartime history and remember the sacrifice of our service men and women. We must ensure Capricornia’s local history of service is never forgotten by delivering meaningful projects and allowing people respectful places to commemorate and reflect on our rich military history.”
“I thank the Frenchville Sports Club for their commitment to honouring all those who have served,” Ms Landry said.
RSL Rockhampton extended their heartfelt gratitude to the Frenchville Sports Club, the Iwasaki Foundation, and the Salute Their Service Grants Program for their exceptional efforts in creating a magnificent structure that commemorates local citizens who have served our nation in times of war and peace. The plaques on the Memorial Wall, placed upon families' requests, regardless of RSL membership, encompass the contributions of all those who have served from 1896 to the present and the future. "Lest We Forget," they said.
Desley Rial OAM, Grants Director for the Iwasaki Foundation, said that the Foundation through their Charitable Grants Program, is pleased to be able to play a part in assisting the Capricornia RSL Sub-Branch with the establishment of a Memorial Wall to honour the contribution of our Servicemen and Women.
“This wall will also provide a safe and dedicated place for Veterans as well as members of the community, many of whom face disability and mental challenges, to reflect honour and pay tribute to those who fought so bravely for the freedom we enjoy today.”
“Congratulations to the RSL members and the Frenchville Sports Club for having the vision, dedication and passion to provide the community with a lasting Memorial of such significance,” Mrs Rial said.
The opening of the Memorial Wall at Frenchville Sports Club represents a significant milestone in honouring the sacrifices and contributions of our servicemen and women. This memorial will be a symbol of our community's gratitude and commitment to remembering those who have dedicated their lives to defending our nation.
