Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Stuart Robert, together with local Federal Member for Flinders, Greg Hunt, today attended the dedication of the new Coronet Bay War Memorial and met with local veterans in Melbourne’s south east.
“It is always wonderful coming down to this corner of Victoria and I am extremely pleased to see the new Coronet Bay War Memorial as a focal war tribute in the community,” Mr Robert said.
Federal Member for Flinders, Greg Hunt, said he had lobbied for federal funding for the memorial.
“I am thrilled that we were able to provide $1,200 to for the Coronet Bay War Memorial and I thank the Coronet Bay Reserve Committee of Management for their tremendous contribution to creating this plaque and garden memorial and their and dedication to ensuring it is maintained for future generations,” Mr Hunt said.
Mr Robert and Mr Hunt also met with the Phillip Island RSL Sub-branch and visited the Phillip Island Cenotaph, which was significantly refurbished with the help of an $11,000 Commonwealth Government grant.
“The Cenotaph at Cowes is now more accessible for Anzac Day services and will be able to accommodate the steadily increasing number of visitors who wish to commemorate our nation’s history,” Mr Hunt said.
As part of the visit Mr Robert and Mr Hunt also visited Newhaven’s National Vietnam Veterans Museum and HMAS Cerberus where they had the opportunity to meet with some of the local RSL groups.
“I am thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to get out and meet with veterans from around Australia, listening to their concerns and understanding their priorities,” Mr Robert said.
“Greg is a terrific advocate for of veterans, and the local community has clearly benefited from his passion for the commemoration of the Centenary of Anzac.”