New space to commemorate historic sacrifice unveiled

Aptly timed before Remembrance Day, the garden was unveiled on Monday, October 30, to a crowd of about 100 people including local war veterans, Lifestyle Shepparton residents, RSL Shepparton sub-branch members, and the garden’s landscapers.

Emcee of the event Gavan Pritchett said he and other committee members experienced many “knock backs” during the five-year process, but it was Pauline Pritchett’s unrelenting nature that saw the memorial come to fruition.

“I’ve organised the ANZAC march here (at Lifestyle Shepparton) for the past six or seven years,” Ms Pritchett said.

“Initially, we (the committee) thought we needed somewhere, a place of reflection, and it eventually got passed that we could do this dedication to all who’ve fought in war.

“The RSL also donated money to us, and that has helped get (the project) on the road, so we’re really grateful.”

The new garden area features two plaques - one made from a piece of old red gum sourced locally, a Gallipoli lone pine tree planting, a soldier statue, and a flagpole.

Perhaps the most recognisable symbol of remembrance, though, is the poppies crocheted and laid by the residents.

Ms Pritchett said about 22 ex-service people, mainly from Vietnam, currently reside in Lifestyle Shepparton, all with their own stories, experiences and effects from war.

For Ms Pritchett, it was her grandpa serving in Gallipoli and he never spoke about it, a commonality among many soldiers unable to make sense of the incomprehensible.

“It’s important for everyone, especially kids, to learn about the ANZACs and continue to commemorate their sacrifice ... the idea is for this space to be here for generations to come.”