Wartime heritage preserved in Southern Downs

April 27, 2022

The sacrifice and service of veterans from the Southern Downs community will be further commemorated and recognised with the Freestone Memorial Hall Association and Queensland Mounted Infantry Historical Troop sharing in $1.5 million under the latest round of the Australian Government’s Saluting Their Service grants program.

Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said four Maranoa organisations were among the 129 recipients, representing ex-service organisations, local councils, schools, and historical societies.

“We are very proud to support the Freestone Memorial Hall Association with a grant of $10,000 to research the names of locals who served in the First and Second World Wars and replace the existing Honour Rolls in the Freestone Hall,” Mr Littleproud said.

“A grant of $8,360 will also assist the Queensland Mounted Infantry Historical Troop to purchase Boer War replica uniforms for performances at commemorative events.”

Mr Littleproud said that all four Maranoa projects provide authentic ways to commemorate and reflect on the sacrifice of those who have served from Maranoa communities.

“From research to Honour Rolls, memorabilia displays, and uniforms for mounted commemorative events – projects cover a wide range of ideas to honour the sacrifice of our nation’s servicemen and women.

“It’s clear from the number and calibre of applications that our communities continue to look for new and improved ways to commemorate the service of our veterans, with many exploring modern technologies and reaching new audiences.”

Saluting Their Service is a national grants program. For further details visit the Saluting Their Service page on the Community Grants Hub website.