Ingenia Lifestyle unveils war memorial
THE INGENIA Lifestyle War Memorial in Hervey Bay was formally dedicated on September 6, marking the completion of a two-year community-driven project.
The dedication ceremony featured a Catafalque Party provided by cadets from the local naval cadet unit, TS Krait.
Attendees were led through the solemn proceedings with bagpipe music by Keir Welsh, the Last Post by Noel Anderson, and the hymn and National Anthem sung by Carolyn Tulloch.
The idea for the memorial began in March 2023 when resident Jim Martin called a meeting to form a committee.
With the support of then community manager Linda Nichols, the group set out to create a lasting tribute.
The committee included Martin as Chairman, Mike Roberts as Secretary, Graham Hunt as Treasurer, Ken Burns and Paul Barker as Project Managers, and members Graham Henry and Graeme Wright.
Their vision was to transform an underused area near the main hall, entrance foyer, bowls green and pool into a reflective and commemorative space.
The result features five steel cutouts representing the Army, Navy, Air Force, a nurse, and a dog, all facing two flagpoles and a commemorative plaque.
A water feature and special bench seating enhance the tranquil garden setting.
Volunteer landscape gardeners Donna Romeril and Janine McLachlan designed plantings inspired by the Anzac Peninsula, creating a striking visual impact.
Despite setbacks, including flooding from Cyclone Alfred’s tail in March that delayed the dedication, progress continued.
On April 2, 2025, the garden, flagpoles, statues and water feature were unveiled to residents ahead of the official ceremony.
The project received financial and in-kind support from Ingenia Lifestyle, community fundraising and a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Saluting Their Service grant, guided by the Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch.
Local businesses, donors, and council representatives contributed, while residents hosted successful fundraising events such as a High Tea, Elvis Tribute Show, and Jumble Sale.
A memorial seat, funded by the Hervey Bay RSL Sub-Branch and Memorial Club, is still to come. Resident Ron Andrews also built an honour board recognising Ingenia residents and families who served.
Following the dedication ceremony, dinner was held in the clubhouse.
