At this time of the year, with Anzac Day fast approaching, many people’s thoughts turn to those who fought for our freedom and paid the ultimate price.
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Amongst the fallen were young men from our own community.
According to a newspaper item dated April 11, 1922, a public meeting was held at the Finley School of Arts to discuss the erection of a suitable memorial to those of Finley and district “who made the Great Sacrifice at the Great War”.
Mr Charles McAllister snr was the instigator of the memorial and the main contributor to the appeal.
He offered to donate a further £70 if the community could raise a similar amount.
Following lengthy, and sometimes heated, discussion at the meeting, it was decided to purchase an obelisk and that the council be approached to allow it to be erected in the Memorial Park.
The park was in the process of being established and had the Avenue of Honour already planted around it.
Typical of the community of Finley and surrounding district, the project received generous financial support.
The current obelisk was officially opened on May 24, 1923, by Colonel Wm McKenzie MC, Late 1st Infantry Brigade, AIF.
According to a well kept file by John Hand’s father, Bill, the other monuments to commemorate conflicts were added over the years to make the great presentation that now exists in Finley Memorial Park.
When attending the dawn or day service this Anzac Day, let us remember not only the fallen but also those who worked hard to ensure we will not forget them.
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Members of the Finley RSL Sub-branch gave of their time and effort to conduct an Easter raffle to raise funds to assist local ex-service men and women and their families recently.
There were three baskets of beautifully arranged Easter eggs and goodies, and the first prize went to Bob Coates.
Cheryl Bodycoat was delighted to receive the second basket, as was Denise Hanson who scored the third basket.
The organisers would like to thank members of the community for the continuing support given to the group.
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One cannot fail to appreciate the wonderful community spirit in Finley and the surrounding towns.
This was shown once again by the number of volunteers who gave the time to take part in the annual Good Friday Appeal, with proceeds going to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.
The response was amazing, and the organisers would like to thank the collectors and the community for the generous support given to the appeal.
There are several families in our midst who have needed the assistance of the Melbourne Royal Children’s Hospital, and equipment purchased as a result of the annual appeal.
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A report has been received from Nan Smith, from the Finley Bowling Club, that a great weekend was enjoyed by the bowlers.
She would like to sincerely thank those who took part in the competitions.
A special welcome was given to two members from Norlane Bowling Club.
‘Chook’ and ‘Shell’ were made most welcome, and assured Nan that they will be returning next Easter.
The result of the Easter raffle, conducted by the members, were as follows: first prize Dave Midson, second Julie Sellers and third Jenny O’Connelly.
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Just a reminder that members of the Finley RSL Sub-branch will be selling badges and RSL paraphernalia in the CBD in the lead up to Anzac Day.
Also, the Sub-branch will be holding a street stall on Friday, April 21.
Donations of cakes, slices and other saleable goods would be much appreciated.
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Items for ‘From Finley’ may be submitted by phoning 0428 293 922, emailing anne.freestone@bigpond.com, or left at the Southern Riverina News office.
Please include a contact name and phone number.
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