Glen Innes High School War Animals Memorial

About

This monument is designed to acknowledge the contribution of the diverse range of animals that have served Australia in conflict. It is a dark grey bushrock with a bronze plaque attached. It was presented to the Special Needs Section of the Glen Innes High School. A painted mural depicting animals is also attached to the fence behind the rock, and a purple remembrance flower garden has been planted. At the ceremony, the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (A.W.A.M.O.) President Nigel Allsopp presented a purple rose to be placed in the garden. This rose came from a nursery and has been named Charles de Gaulle. The same rose will be placed at the war animal memorial in Pozieres, France. Following the ceremony, the Special Education teacher stated, "We never could have organised this all without the support of Gordon Taylor, President of the RSL Sub-Branch, whose enthusiasm and hard work was inspiring." The A.W.A.M.O. was formed to ensure animals used by our defence forces are not forgotten. As recorded in the ABC Gold Coast News, 22 April 2016, Mr Allsopp stated, "Our aim is to establish recognition of their service, deeds and sacrifices (with) memorials at selected RSLs and parks." The memorial is located on the northern side of the main Glen Innes High School administrative block near the Special Needs classroom.