By Romy Stephens
The Lilydale RSL is appealing for public assistance with the oldest war memorial plaque in the Yarra Ranges missing from Melba Park.
In 1900, the people of Lilydale commemorated the relief of Mafeking, a town besieged in South Africa during the Boer War, by planting an oak tree and placing a plaque on the iron guard around it.
According to the Lilydale and District Historical Society, the site was recently vandalised and the commemorative brass plaque has been taken.
Lilydale RSL vice president Terry Hickey urged those with information to come forward.
“Lilydale RSL is saddened and appalled by the senseless damage to the oldest and most sacred war memorial in the Yarra Ranges and one of the oldest in Victoria with the theft of the memorial plaque commemorating the Relief of Mafeking,” he said.
“Lilydale RSL is appealing for anyone who may have information that may assist in recovery of this most historically significant plaque to please contact the Lilydale Police on 9739 2300 immediately.”
The Siege of Mafeking saw a large Boer force cross into British Territory in South Africa and attack the town of Mafeking, three days after the Anglo-Boer War started.
In May 1900, a flying column of British cavalry arrived and relieved the town.
When the news of the town’s relief was heard in Lilydale, local bells were rang and people gathered in the streets to celebrate.
The council announced that 24 May 1900 would be a day of celebrations known as Mafeking Day.
An English Oak was planted on 13 June, in what is now Melba Park, and called the Mafeking Tree.
A protective iron guard was placed around it and a special plaque commemorating the event was placed on the bars of the guard.
