The Andrews Labor Government is upgrading one of Victoria’s most significant war memorials to ensure the incredible service and sacrifice of veterans and their families will be remembered for many years to come.
Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane announced today that $810,000 will be provided through the Victorian Budget 2022-23 to upgrade the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross Reserve, located at the summit of Mount Macedon, north-west of Melbourne.
The investment in this program forms part of $4.8 million from the Victorian Budget 2022-23 to provide dedicated support for Victoria’s veterans and their families and commemorate their contributions.
The budget package includes $2.8 million to continue the Veterans Capital Works Grant Program, which helps organisations that serve the veteran community to upgrade and improve accessibility at their buildings, so veterans and their families have better access to modern facilities.
The 21-metre high cross at the site commemorates those who have served in all wars and conflicts Australia has been involved with and is considered the second most significant war memorial in Victoria after the Shrine of Remembrance.
The landmark hosts an ANZAC Day dawn service and is an increasingly popular tourism destination, with the number of visitors in 2019 exceeding 266,500, with visitor numbers expected to grow significantly in the years to come.
The site offers a range of recreation and tourism experiences, including historical, cultural, walking trails, tea rooms, barbeque areas and opportunities for picnicking.
This investment will protect the heritage and cultural significance of the cross and its surrounds so more Victorians can experience the ANZAC Day dawn service at the iconic site.
The funding for the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross Reserve also builds on Victoria’s proud tradition of commemorating the contributions of veterans following an almost $6 million investment in the Victorian Budget 2021-22 for repairs and improvements at the Shrine of Remembrance.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Veterans Shaun Leane
“Every year, the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross has thousands of Victorians come to reflect and express their gratitude for the service and sacrifice of our veteran community.”
“This investment will ensure this important site is best placed to continue being an iconic spot for commemoration for many years to come.”
Quote attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
“The people of Macedon Ranges are so proud of this iconic and historic site that honours our veterans – that’s why we are ensuring this site is upgraded so the service of our veterans is remembered for years to come.”