A touring exhibition from the Shrine of Remembrance, Changed Forever: Legacies of Conflict is coming to Tongala from 13 April and will run for six weeks. The exhibition interweaves stories of migrants from war-torn countries and recent veterans of overseas service, reflecting the range and depth of experiences of conflict.
Campaspe Shire Council Deputy Mayor Cr Colleen Gates said that it was a great honour for Campaspe Shire to host an exhibition which highlights the experience of veterans, their families and migrants from war-torn countries.
"The themes of this exhibition are relevant to many generations and it would be worthwhile to make the trip to Tongala to visit.
"The stories told within this exhibition demonstrate the effects that conflict can have on the lives of refugees, veterans of the Australian Defence Force, and their families. These effects can be physical, emotional and psychological."
The exhibition is based on a collection of oral histories undertaken by the Shrine with Australian Defence Force veterans of recent conflicts and peacekeeping operations, and migrants to Australia who have come here because of conflict. These personal stories illustrate the effect of global and civil conflict on our society today through paintings, sculpture, music, multimedia, poetry and photographs.
The exhibition explores reconciliation between the service people of the Australian Defence Force and the civilian community, and between veterans and their sometimes-estranged families and friends. For migrants, it tells stories of their past as well as the challenges and rewards of their new community.
"We are very lucky to have a group of dedicated volunteers who are staffing the exhibition for its duration, so a variety of days and times will be on offer for visitors to attend, ranging from Wednesdays to Saturdays, with some evening openings as well.
"I encourage everyone to check opening times on the Event Directory on Council's website and come visit this touring exhibition while it is here," Cr Gates added.
Location: Tongala Shire Hall, 92-96 Mangan Street
Dates: 13 April - 20 May
Times: 11am – 3pm (except in during Week 4 from 3 - 6 May where the exhibition will run from 5 - 9pm).
Cost: Free
