The Naval Association

The Naval Association

of Australia

VA065 Wednesday 22 June 2005

$200 000 GRANT FOR VP DAY COMMEMORATIONS IN BRISBANE

The Brisbane City Council will receive $200,000 from the Australian Government to help mark the 60th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific and the end of World War II, the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, De-Anne Kelly, and Lord Mayor Campbell Newman announced today.

Mrs Kelly said she had approved the funding under the Government's Saluting Their Service program to assist Brisbane with its commemoration of VP Day on
15 August.

"About one million Australians served during World War II, with nearly 40 000 losing their lives," the Minister said.

"Australians are grateful to our veterans for fighting to protect our freedom and democracy and the Government is pleased to be supporting a fitting tribute for their contribution to our community."

Councillor Campbell Newman thanked the Federal Government for providing funding to help Brisbane residents and visitors commemorate the 60th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific and the end of World War II.

Councillor Newman said there were many people throughout Australia and overseas whose memories of World War II started and ended in Brisbane.

"It is appropriate that this is reflected in national celebrations planned for the 60th Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific. It's also important that Brisbane is recognised for the important role our city and residents played helping the Allied Forces secure a 'Victory in the Pacific' 60 years ago,"
Cr Newman said.

Cr Newman said Brisbane was also the base for the Commander-in-Chief of the South-West Pacific Campaign, General Douglas MacArthur, and many parts of the city were transformed into military camps.

"Basing its First Fleet headquarters in Brisbane, there were thousands of US servicemen stationed here, which boosted our city's wartime population to more than 750 000. This also provided significant stresses and strains on our city and people," Cr Newman said.

"The generous contribution from the Federal Government will combine with planned Council events to give Brisbane residents a chance to commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom."

Cr Newman said events would include free concerts throughout Brisbane, 1940s films, brass bands in the park, educational council library activities and displays, as well as morning and afternoon teas. The program will be held in City Hall, parks, selected clubs, shopping centres and suburban venues from
1 July to 19 August.

Mrs Kelly said the commemorations in Brisbane would be part of a range of events planned around the country to heighten community awareness about VP Day and its place in Australian history.

"These community activities will complement the national Salute to Veterans in Canberra during 13-15 August, the centrepiece of the 60th anniversary commemorations," Mrs Kelly said.

"I congratulate Brisbane for its commitment to honouring our veterans and those who gave their lives in the service of our nation."