Wiangaree Second World War Honour Roll

About

The Wiangaree Second World War Honour Roll is a carved timber board that lists the names of 94 veterans from the community who served in the war. Their names are printed in gold lettering in two columns in the centre of the board.  The roll is a highly decorative piece, which was designed by Australian artist Ian McBain. Its main decorative feature is a large carving of a wreath, which acts as a border to the list of names. Surrounding the wreath is a carved linear pattern and a ribbon banner is located above the wreath. The carving was done by veteran Ern Paine and the lettering was the work of Fred Wright (The Kyogle Examiner, 26 November 1948). Both men also created the Wiangaree M.U.I.O.O.F. Second World War Honour Roll.  The unveiling ceremony took place on 11 December 1948 at the Wiangaree Hall (also known as the Wiangaree Literary Institute). At that time, the roll contained 80 names. The well-attended event was reported in the Northern Star on 15 December and The Kyogle Examiner on 17 December. Mr E.G. Moore was chairman of the function and notable visitors included the President of Kyogle Shire Council, Councillor E.L. Vincent, and representatives of Kyogle RSL and Women's Auxiliary. The unveiling itself was performed by Mr H.L. Anthony M.L.A. In his speech, Mr Anthony stated that 80% of the eligible manpower of the district enlisted, while the remainder were engaged in essential services. Framed photographs of the late servicemen James Davie and Bernard Collins were prepared for their parents.  The roll is available for viewing when the hall is open for public occasions. The Wiangaree village was proclaimed on 27 March 1907 and is located 13 kilometres north of Kyogle, on the Summerland Way.