Speeches
Tuesday, 18 March 2025
Rotary Club of Magill Sunrise Memorial Seats Unveiling
It is wonderful to be back at the Gums Memorial Reserve this evening to unveil the five memorial seats.
The Gums is a special reserve in the Campbelltown area; one much treasured by the local community because it is all about community.
It is a place to walk, to play, to explore, to reflect.
In this part of the reserve, we stand in a place of respect; one where we honour our veterans and reflect on their service and sacrifice, whether that’s in formal ceremonies such as on Anzac Day, or in individual, peaceful contemplation.
These five memorial seats will not only serve as a lasting tribute to those who served our nation in war, conflict, or peacekeeping, but will provide a place for gathering and remembrance.
I am sure they will be much appreciated by those attending ceremonies at the war memorial or those who just want to sit a while.
While the seats are a simple, practical idea, they have deep meaning.
They create a space to share stories and connect us to those who help make our society one of which we can and should be proud.
The attractive designs not only pay tribute to those who served, but also recognise the five Rotary, Lions and RSL clubs who work so diligently for the benefit of the community.
I congratulate Pauline Hill on her vision in identifying the need for the seats to enable visitors to the memorial to sit and reflect, and the five service clubs who worked together on the project.
Alongside that, the recently-installed Rotary Peace pole also provides a focal point for our fervent wish ’May Peace Prevail on Earth’ – a sentiment we share with those who have served our nation.
I hope people will come here to honour the past, share stories with their families, and reflect on how our veterans have shaped today and how their legacy can help us build our future.
It will give me great pleasure to unveil each of the five memorial seats in just a few moments.