Livingstone Shire Council and Emu Park RSL Partner to Support ANZAC Memorial Walk Extension

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Published
30th January 2025

Livingstone Shire Council and the Emu Park RSL Sub-Branch have formalised their commitment to the Emu Park Centenary of ANZAC Memorial Walk Extension Project by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement underscores their shared dedication to advancing the project through fundraising, securing grants, and ensuring high-quality design and construction.

The MOU establishes Council’s role in providing critical oversight to ensure the memorial’s design aligns with engineering and safety standards while leveraging resources for effective project delivery. The Emu Park RSL will lead community engagement and fundraising efforts, ensuring the project maintains its strong local significance.

Mayor Adam Belot highlighted the importance of collaboration in bringing the project to fruition.

"The Emu Park Centenary of ANZAC Memorial Walk is a nationally acclaimed memorial. By partnering with the Emu Park RSL and receiving support from our state and federal representatives, we can continue to honour the ANZAC spirit while enhancing community connectivity,” Mayor Belot said.

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, said the ANZAC Memorial Walk extension will further serve to provide important insights into the ANZAC legacy and ensure future generations understand and appreciate the sacrifices made for our nation.

“The Emu Park Memorial Walk stands as a vital and iconic piece of community infrastructure, that not only honours our proud military history but also serves as a place of reflection and remembrance for locals and visitors alike.

In addition to its historical significance, the Memorial Walk is a major attraction for tourists and an invaluable educational resource for school groups,” Ms Landry said.

Keppel MP Nigel Hutton said he continues to support the Emu Park RSL’s proposal to extend the Memorial Walk north around the point and down to Peace Park.

"The Emu Park Memorial Walk commemorates the sacrifices made by our service members, while also serving as a significant attraction for visitors to the region," Mr Hutton said. 

"The walkway and memorial have become a must-see icon for visitors to the region and is a popular meeting place for residents based right across Central Queensland.

"The site also provides an invaluable educational resource for school groups, offering insights into the ANZAC legacy and Australia's military history, keeping our history alive.

"The success of the project has always been an amazing collaboration between all three levels of government, the community, local business and the Emu Park RSL Sub-Branch.

"I am honoured to continue to advocate to secure the necessary funding to ensure the successful completion of this important initiative. 

"The continued work on the Emu Park Memorial Walkway will continue to enrich our community's cultural and historical fabric while bringing another significant destination to our region for visitors to enjoy and I thank the hard-working committee for all they have done to bring this dream alive."

Emu Park RSL Sub-Branch Deputy President Mark Flanagan said this project represents the fourth stage of the memorial walk and will be an asset to the community.

“Not only will it enhance the memorial itself, but it will provide connectivity down to the township, improving the experience for all who enjoy this beautiful walk,” Mr Flanagan said.

The MOU establishes the framework for collaboration:

  • The Emu Park RSL will lead community engagement and fundraising for the detailed design phase.
  • Local artist Bill Gannon will provide the initial design scope, which Council will review to ensure compliance with technical and engineering standards.
  • The Emu Park RSL will engage a professional grant writer for funding applications.
  • Council will oversee the project’s construction if sufficient funding is secured to cover all costs, including project management.

The Federal Member for Capricornia and the State Member for Keppel have provided letters of support for the project, reinforcing its significance at both state and national levels.

Council will work to add the Emu Park Centenary of ANZAC Memorial Walk Extension Project to its priority project list, subject to funding availability and community support.

For further information or to learn how to support the project, contact Livingstone Shire Council or the Emu Park RSL Sub-Branch.