The Andrews Labor Government is helping local veterans and the Beaufort RSL preserve their past through the careful restoration of a decades-old Union Flag.

Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane was at the Beaufort RSL today to formally unveil the flag – a historical and emotional record of local wartime service, having been signed by many World War Two servicemen and women as they returned home to the area or passed through.

The 2m-wide flag has been reframed to conservation standards thanks to a $5,000 Labor Government grant, provided through last year’s 75^th Anniversary of the End of WWII Grant Program.

The funding will also be used to support the Beaufort RSL and Beaufort Historical Society in putting together an exhibition telling stories of wartime service by Beaufort locals, overseas and on the home front.

The flag and exhibition will serve as a powerful historical record and educational tool to show the contributions of residents of Beaufort and surrounding areas during WWII.

It is one of 31 projects funded through the Program, which was set up last year to commemorate 75 years since the end of WWII.

Up to $30,000 for activities or projects that marked the occasion or increased awareness of Victoria’s WWII history were available.

For the full list of last year’s successful applicants, visit vic.gov.au/75th-anniversary-end-world-war-two-grant-program.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane

“Preserving the Beaufort Union Flag for future generations means we can continue to inspire and educate others – and preserve a legacy so many Victorians fought for – this is a wonderful piece of our history.”

“It’s just one of many projects across the state that rightly recognises and commemorates the service of servicemen and women during World War Two – it’s a sacrifice we will not forget.”