Krambach First World War Memorial Avenue and Honour Roll

About

The Camphor Laurel trees along Bucketts Way in Krambach were planted on 30 August 1919 by the residents of the village as a memorial to their 46 soldiers who served Australia in the First World War. Most of the original trees still survive. In nearby Leo Carney Park, a polished black-granite monument is inscribed with an honour roll and a direct reference to the memorial avenue. It has a centre panel where the dedication is inscribed, and two wings on either side where the names are listed. At the top of the centre panel is a large rising sun emblem for the Australian Commonwealth Military Forces. The monument was dedicated in April 2002. Behind it is a curved stone wall and multiple rosemary plants.  On 14 April 2010, the Krambach Chapter of the Wingham RSL sub-Branch received a 'Saluting Their Service Grant' to install a flagpole at the monument. It is positioned behind the wall. There is no inscription on the flagpole.  The Northern Champion published a detailed report on the planting on 6 September 1919, including listing the names of those who had served and the fallen. Mr T. Paterson, an elderly resident of the district, presided and he called on Mr R.A. Price M.L.A. to speak. Councillor McKinnon also spoke, as well as local school teacher Mr McAulay who had been in charge of the roll. The planting then took place, with the president handing the soldier's next of kin or friend the tree. For those killed, "all present uncovered their heads and bowed in token of respect" and "[i]n the case of a returned soldier three hearty cheers were given as soon as the tree was planted and cheers were given heartily till the avenue was filled."  Commemorative services are held at the monument and flagpole.

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