As we approach the end of April our thoughts turn to Anzac Day commemorations around the Shire. Councillors are looking forward to joining in all commemorations, and my special thanks goes to those who have been willing to forgo their own ward commemorations to ensure all locations are represented given clashing times.
All of us know the Avenue of Honour in Ballarat with its imposing Arch of Honour. Actually, it's the longest Avenue of Honour stretching 22 kilometres with 3,912 trees. It forms one of 547 Avenues of Honour in Australia. Over half are in Victoria.
Less known is the fact that Avenues of Honour, remembering those who fought or died during war, are a tradition developing from the Victorian Goldfields region so part of our rich heritage. Although some date from the Boer War most originate from after the 1914-1918 Great War.
Many of these avenues now feature large, established trees and exotic species. Sadly some have been lost to clearing projects and changing views on street trees.
Increasingly we recognise how important tree planting is not only to the beauty of our towns but also the health of the environment and the welcoming shade they provide. We are also rediscovering our own lost heritage within our Shire.
Two local projects are really exciting - restoration of the Avenues of Honour in Majorca and Talbot, the latter hopefully to be funded from the Queen's Jubilee Planting for Trees funding. Special thanks to those leading these two very worthwhile initiatives.
