A bird’s eye view of the planned World War 1 memorial in
Caroline Bay. Construction of the $130,000 project, which
will incorporate the existing memorial wall and sundial, is
expected to begin mid September. Picture: Supplied by Boffa
Miskell Ltd
Funding has been secured for a $130,000 World War 1
memorial for Caroline Bay.
South Canterbury War Memorial Society chairman Mark Hervey
said construction would start in mid September and he was
optimistic it would be completed in time for an unveiling at
a commemoration ceremony on November 11.
The ceremony will mark the 90th anniversary of the signing of
the armistice at the end of World War 1.
Mr Hervey said South Canterbury company Hadlee and Brunton
was the project's major sponsor. The Community Trust of Mid
& South Canterbury had contributed $20,000 and
significant donations had been received from two individuals,
whose names Mr Hervey wished to keep confidential.
The interpretive memorial will highlight significant battles
of World War 1. Incorporating the existing memorial wall and
sundial, its base will show a map of the world that pinpoints
the location of battles.
It will be flanked by 10 plinths with explanations of the
battles and details of Victoria Cross winners.
The November 11 ceremony is being organised by a working
group consisting of local representatives from organisations
associated with the armed forces.
The group's chairman, Roger Fagg, said members had discussed
ideas for the commemoration at a meeting on July 22. The
group will meet again on August 19 to finalise arrangements.
‘‘There were some good ideas. It should be something that we
can all be proud of.''
For the past two years, the Air Training Corps has held a
commemorative service on November 11 at the existing
memorial.
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