General News
17 May, 2023
Moyne receives avenue funding boost
MORTLAKE’S Avenue of Honour has been named among projects to receive State Government funding to support and honour veterans and their families.
MORTLAKE’S Avenue of Honour has been named among projects to receive State Government funding to support and honour veterans and their families.
The Andrews Labor Government has announced more than $1.4 million funding for 55 projects offering practical support for the veteran community as well as commemorating their incredible contributions.
Moyne Shire Council will receive $50,000 towards the replanting of 105 trees commemorating World War veterans under the Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Grant.
Minister for Veterans Natalie Suleyman said the government was proud to support the projects.
“We’re proud to support projects that provide veterans and their families with access to modern, accessible and efficient facilities,” she said.
“All Victorians can pay their respects, learn about history and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of our veterans.”
Trees on Mortlake’s Avenue of Honour were removed in early 2022 after a severe storm jeopardised the structural integrity of dozens of the century old Monterey Cypress trees.
The trees had already been marked for removal after an arborist’s report found trees in the avenue affected by the canker disease.
The 191 trees on the avenue have now all been felled, with the Holm Oak replacement species currently in the process of growing to maturation; which is required under heritage permit.
Planting of the new Holm Oak trees was expected to begin from mid-2024.
A spokesperson for Moyne Shire Council welcomed the funding.
“The Avenue’s heritage listing means there are several very strict requirements about how the project unfolds, that unfortunately adds to the costs,” the spokesperson said.
“The funding is very welcome news and will help offset those costs.”
Victorian Veterans Council chair commodore Greg Yorke said the projects to receive funding would be difference-making.
“We always look forward to seeing these projects come to life, knowing they will make a difference to the veteran community and help ensure their service is honoured,” he said.
The Labor Government in addition announced funding for 31 projects through the Veterans Capital Works Grant Program, which funds facility upgrades of up to $50,000 for not-for-profit and ex-service organisations.
A range of RSL sub-branches and other organisations are also receiving funding to install solar panels which reduce power costs.
A further 11 organisations will receive funding through the Victoria Remembers program, which provides grants of up to $30,000 for projects commemorating veterans’ service or educating Victorians about the contributions that veterans and their families have made.
All applications were assessed by the Victorian Veterans Council, an independent body which provides advice to the government on issues affecting the Victorian veteran community.