THE war memorial and flagpoles on Town Green in Port Macquarie will not be relocated – despite rumours to the contrary.
Earlier this week, mayor Peter Besseling moved to lay the rumours to rest.
“There would be no push by the council to relocate the war memorial from the Town Green unless it is proposed by the local RSL sub-branch and has the full support of its members,” he said.
“It is certainly not an item on the council’s agenda at the moment – and will it be unless it is the express wish of sub-branch members.”
The mayor’s statement followed comments made by RSL sub-branch president Greg Laird in an official president’s report circulated to members.
“During talks with our mayor, Mr Besseling, it seems he is in support of moving the memorial to Rotary Park, a move we would vigorously oppose,“ Mr Laird wrote.
He said the only way to march to the memorial if it were moved to Rotary Park was uphill, which would obviously be difficult for ageing veterans.
“The memorial is in a prime spot now and moving it is not warranted as Anzac Day marches are traditionally conducted in the main street of any town or city,” he said.
Retired RAAF squadron leader Ian Carswell was among those who expressed concern to the Independent after reading the president’s comments.
“The memorial is in a prime spot now, with easy access for all visitors, and I think it should stay where it is,” he said.
“This is also a beautiful serene spot by the water, so where better to pay tribute than here?”
