Grafton Public School First World War Honor Roll

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The Grafton Public School First World War Honor Roll is large timber board, made of dark Queensland maple. It features a decorative carved pediment at the top and the names of 256 ex-pupils who served in the war printed in gold on the main body of the board.  Planning for the memorial was underway by the end of 1918. On 3 December, the Daily Examiner published a detailed list of names from the school's principal, Mr Hall, that were to be placed on the roll. Mr Hall appealed for further names to be sent in. On 31 December, the Examiner published three more names. Construction of the roll took place the following year, with the work being carried out by Messrs H H Sanders, under the direction of the Grafton Parents and Citizens Association (P&C).  The unveiling was originally scheduled for 11 October 1919. It was to be held as part of Peace celebrations, including a sports day for the children and a military tattoo in the evening (Daily Examiner, 18 August 1919). However, the unveiling did not take place until 12 December. The ceremony was organised by the P&C and it was held outside, near the boy's building at the school. A report appeared in the Examiner on 16 December. The newspaper stated the roll was unveiled by the Mayor of Grafton, Alderman. D McFarlane, and speakers included Archdeacon Tress, Reverend F J Curwood, Dr Earle Page, and Inspector Fraser.