Local artist’s poppy panel to remember Wandong diggers
More than 180 fallen soldiers from Wandong will soon be remembered for their services through a touching poppy wall installation supported by grant funding from the Inland Rail Community Sponsorships and Donations program.
December 18, 2020
The Poppies for a Soldier project, which is being curated by local Kilmore artist Marina Villani. The project features 182 poppies installed on a series of glass panels, each representing soldiers who served in wars including WWI, WWII and the Boer War.
Wandong History Group President Karen Christensen said the panels will be installed at the under-construction Wandong Heathcote Junction Military Interpretative Centre, which will be located in the Wandong Heathcote Junction Memorial Park.
“With these beautiful panels, Marina understood exactly what we were looking for, right from the start,” Karen said.
When the installation is on full display, it will strengthen the war memorial’s important role in recognising all the Wondong locals – many who sacrificed their lives on the battlefield.
“We want to further educate younger generations so they can better understand and respect this important part of Wandong’s history,” Karen said.
”Donations from organisations like Inland Rail support these community-driven projects to become a reality.
“Poppies for a Soldier is not only part of an educational program commemorating our wartime history, but the artwork itself creates a real wow factor in our town,” she said.
Find out more about Inland Rail’s Community Sponsorships and Donations program here.
