Grant salutes military heritage

By Ed Merrison
UPWEY-BELGRAVE RSL welcomed news of a grant from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to help preserve an item of military heritage.
La Trobe MP Jason Wood announced the $500 grant, which has been used to purchase a display case for the sub-branch’s model of HMAS Castlemaine on Wednesday, 30 November.
“This funding has been approved through the Saluting Their Service commemorations program,” Mr Wood said.
Mr Wood said the large model of the HMAS Castlemaine, currently housed in the sub-branch foyer, would be encased in perspex for display to members, visitors and school children.
The HMAS Castlemaine served in New Guinea, Darwin and Hong Kong after the Japanese surrender.
It was presented to the Maritime Trust of Australia in 1974 and is now moored at Gem Pier, Williamstown, as a museum ship.
She is the only surviving corvette still afloat of 60 sister ships built during World War II.
“I would like to congratulate the Upwey-Belgrave RSL for taking the initiative with regards to this project and I am pleased that the Commonwealth Government is able to lend its support to commemorating such an important part of our history,” Mr Wood said.
Former vice-president of the Upwey-Belgrave RSL Peter Chandler served on the Castlemaine and said the RSL was proud to have such a detailed memento of the ship.
“It has special significance for me personally as I spent most of my time on the ship during my years in the Navy.
“It’s a good talking point and is something people can admire when they come in for a visit,” Mr Chandler said.
Upwey-Belgrave RSL president Robert Ferguson said the RSL had been concerned the model might be damaged, and was pleased to gain the means to preserve it.
“The Department of Veterans Affairs is very supportive of ex-services organisations in trying to preserve our military heritage and we’re extremely fortunate for the support we receive from Jason Wood,” he said.
Community organisations wishing to apply for Saluting Their Service grants are encouraged to contact Mr Wood’s office on 9762 4066.