New space to commemorate historic sacrifice unveiled

By Taylah Baker

Nov 1, 2023

**Lest we forget:** 20th Light Horse Regiment member Terry Scott at the unveiling of Lifestyle Shepparton’s new memorial garden. Photo by Taylah Baker

Despite reconsiderations, obstacles and one pesky wallaby, a heartfelt commemoration has been made at Lifestyle Shepparton.

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The retirement village has dedicated a space in the gardens of their clubhouse for all service people who’ve fought in all wars.

Aptly timed before Remembrance Day, the garden was unveiled on Monday, October 30, to a crowd of about 100 people including local war veterans, Lifestyle Shepparton residents, RSL Shepparton sub-branch members, and the garden’s landscapers.

**Standing proudly:** Veterans Watson, member of Fiji Military Forces, and Terry Scott, member of the 20th Light Horse Regiment. Photo by Taylah Baker

Emcee of the event Gavan Pritchett said he and other committee members experienced many “knock backs” during the five-year process, but it was Pauline Pritchett’s unrelenting nature that saw the memorial come to fruition.

“I’ve organised the ANZAC march here (at Lifestyle Shepparton) for the past six or seven years,” Ms Pritchett said.

“Initially, we (the committee) thought we needed somewhere, a place of reflection, and it eventually got passed that we could do this dedication to all who’ve fought in war.

“The RSL also donated money to us, and that has helped get (the project) on the road, so we’re really grateful.”

**Partnership:** Shepparton RSL sub-branch president Bob Wilkie said the RSL supported Lifestyle Shepparton in creating the new space to honour Australia’s service people. Photo by Taylah Baker

The new garden area features two plaques - one made from a piece of old red gum sourced locally, a Gallipoli lone pine tree planting, a soldier statue, and a flagpole.

Perhaps the most recognisable symbol of remembrance, though, is the poppies crocheted and laid by the residents.

**Community collaboration:** The rectangle plaque at the back of the garden is made from old red gum sourced locally. Photo by Taylah Baker

**For all who fought:** A commemorative statue of a lone soldier stands at the front of the flagpole. Photo by Taylah Baker

Ms Pritchett said about 22 ex-service people, mainly from Vietnam, currently reside in Lifestyle Shepparton, all with their own stories, experiences and effects from war.

For Ms Pritchett, it was her grandpa serving in Gallipoli and he never spoke about it, a commonality among many soldiers unable to make sense of the incomprehensible.

“It’s important for everyone, especially kids, to learn about the ANZACs and continue to commemorate their sacrifice ... the idea is for this space to be here for generations to come.”

**Symbolic:** Veteran Watson hoisting the Australian flag. Photo by Taylah Baker

Poppy sales

RSL Shepparton sub-branch members are again selling poppies and other Remembrance Day items for their annual Poppy Appeal.

The funds raised go towards helping local veterans and their families.

Items can be purchased from leading distributors in Greater Shepparton – Fairleys IGA, Amcal Pharmacy, ALDI, Dan Murphy’s, Riverside Plaza and Coles – leading up to Remembrance Day on Saturday, November 11.

New badges are available this year to mark the 50th anniversary of the withdrawal of Australian troops from the Vietnam War.

Both EFTPOS and cash accepted.