David Gillespie (Lyne, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I met both the president of Laurieton RSL subbranch, Mike McClelland, and his treasurer, Syd Farrow, to see the plans for two new memorials to be built at Laurieton Memorial Park in my electorate. During my visit to the park, I was able to announce a local grant of $4,000 to assist in the construction of a new navy memorial and a new air force memorial to help commemorate the proud history of the local veterans from the Camden Haven community. May I take this opportunity to congratulate the Laurieton RSL subbranch on its efforts to recognise the invaluable contribution of our local service men and women, past and present, and to ensure that the next generation, particularly our young people, continue to have an appreciation and understanding of their service and sacrifice.

This local project in the Camden Haven is one of 81 projects across the country to receive funding under the latest round of Saluting Their Service grants. Over $187,000 was allocated to community and ex-service organisations across the country. I am delighted that Laurieton was successful in the latest funding round. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Senator Michael Ronaldson, on his support of the Laurieton project.

As members would be aware, the Saluting Their Service grants program helps communities across Australia contribute to the commemoration of those who have served, and continue to serve, our nation. It is a small but worthwhile program, and we should continue to support it.