The official unveiling of Gundagai’s memorial of the Battle of Coral-Balmoral and Private Richard Borden VC will take place on Thursday 14 May at 10am in Carberry Park.
On Thursday 14 at 10.00am, Gundagai will play host to the official unveiling of the memorial of the Battle of Coral-Balmoral and Private Richard Norden VC in Carberry Park.
This event honours the service and sacrifice of the Australian soldiers who fought during the Vietnam War, and recognises the extraordinary bravery of Gundagai’s own Private Richard Norden VC.
Guests will begin assembling from 10.00am at Carberry Park, with the official ceremony commencing at 11.00am which will include speeches from Mayor Abb McAlister, Governor General Sam Mostyn, Michael McCormack MP, Kahlil Fegan from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and MAJGEN Chris Smith, A/Chief of Army. There will also be a ribbon cutting and unveiling of the memorial, a blessing, Last Post, Ode, a minute silence and the National Anthem, with proceedings concluding at approximately 12.30pm.
Following the ceremony, guests will move to the Gundagai Services Club, with the helicopter returning to hover at the oval at approximately 12.35pm. From 1.00pm, school students and members of the public will be invited to view the helicopter at the sports ground.
A Vietnam-era Huey helicopter will arrive prior to the ceremony at approximately 10.40am and will be available for public viewing at the sports oval following the service. This is a rare opportunity to see a piece of living history up close, and serves as a powerful tribute to those who served during the Vietnam War.
The Gundagai Visitor Information Centre said the community is warmly invited to attend and be part of this important moment of remembrance.
“This memorial has been carefully brought to life through the dedication of many Australians, and this space will stand as a place of reflection, remembrance and pride for Gundagai,” they say.
“In the lead up to the Opening Ceremony on Thursday, 14 May, work has been underway to create a space that honours the Battle of Coral-Balmoral and Gundagai’s own Richard Norden VC.
“From concept through to construction, this project has been driven by the commitment of the Gundagai RSL Sub-Branch, with the support of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council and the wider community.
“Justin Skews, Owner of Next Level Construction Contractors, and his team have completed the concreting works and have played an important role in bringing the memorial to life, as well as Porter Electrical Contracting and Bernard Smith.”
Road closures will be in place along Sheridan Street between 10.00am and 1.30pm on Thursday, with parking available throughout the township.
Food and coffee vendors will be located in Carberry Park near the Gundagai Visitor Information Centre, and local businesses will be open.
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