COMMUNITY GRANTS TO HONOUR LOCAL VETERANS

COMMUNITY GRANTS TO HONOUR LOCAL VETERANS Main Image

21 April 2026

In the lead-up to Anzac Day, two local organisations in Ipswich and the Somerset Region have secured a total of $17,500 for commemorative projects in the latest round of the Saluting Their Service (STS) Commemorative Grants Program.

Ripley Valley State Secondary College P&C Association has received $10,000 in funding to erect plaques and construct a new memorial at the school’s Anzac Place memorial and gardens.

The enhancements will aim to create a more meaningful and engaging space for student learning, remembrance ceremonies and community reflection.

This will include interpretive signage, landscaping, seating and student-led commemorative artwork, fostering a deeper understanding and respect for the Anzac legacy among the school community.

The Ripley Valley community has a strong connection to our defence forces, with many families having served or currently serving.

Hence, this project not only preserves our wartime heritage, but also fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of the experiences of those who served in more recent times.

In addition, Kilcoy RSL Sub Branch received a $7,500 grant to help restore their commemorative display Leopard Tank.

The two organisations are among 72 community groups across the nation that will receive a share in more than $1.3 million funding for projects commemorating our military history.

Since its inception, the Australian Government’s STS Grants Program has funded thousands of projects nationwide, shining a commemorative light on the veteran community and the sacrifices they have made in our name.

Ex-service organisations, community groups, local councils, schools and individuals are encouraged to apply for funding for projects acknowledging Australia’s proud military history.

To find out more or to apply, visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) website:

www.dva.gov.au/STSgrants 

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said veterans came from all over the Ipswich and Somerset Region, and Karana Downs area, and from towns large and small, so it was only right that the stories of their service were commemorated at home in their communities.

“It’s fantastic to see communities across Blair finding new and meaningful ways to honour those who have served throughout history until the present day,” Mr Neumann said.

“The unique projects delivered through this program reflect the diverse experiences of our defence personnel, and the passionate communities committed to preserving their legacy, and the Albanese Government is proud to support them.

“These projects share a common goal – to ensure stories of service are understood and shared for years to come.

“I want to thank Ripley Valley State Secondary College and Kilcoy RSL Sub Branch for their commitment to sharing the experiences of veterans from Blair to ensure their legacy lives on.

“This will be cherished by our community, and I thank everyone who has advocated for such these important projects to showcase the service and sacrifice of our current and former service personnel in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.”