mmg.com.au

The association’s aim is to have a slightly bigger than life size bronze statue sculpted by one of Australia’s leading sculptors, Peter Corlett built in front of the Heathcote RSL hall on the grassed area to the right of existing flag poles.

Albert was working in the Heathcote area before to World War I and his enlistment papers were processed by enlistment officer Malcolm Nicholson, an uncle of current Heathcote resident and McIvor Citizen of the Year award winner Jean Koch.

Albert was Australia’s most decorated soldier during World War I, having been awarded the Victoria Cross, in addition to the Military Cross.

Apart from an impressive headstone and epitaph on his grave in St Kilda cemetery, no other monument or statue exists in Australia to recognise the achievements of such a brave and outstanding man.

Interim secretary Colin Carrington said important aspects of the project would now be determined and implemented.

‘‘Cost is estimated to be in the vicinity of $125,000, so substantial fundraising through public subscriptions, donations, sponsorships and grants will be necessary,’’ he said.

Mr Carrington recently spoke to Eppalock Ward councillor, Rod Campbell, who asked to be kept informed, as City of Greater Bendigo council might be able to provide some support.

Interested members of the public and representatives of groups or organisations that might like to get involved in supporting the project are also invited to attend Saturday’s meeting.

The suggestion of a statue in Heathcote came from Frank Hill Jun. during his address at the 2011 Anzac Day service, after a visit to Gallipoli earlier last year and the project has the support of Heathcote RSL.

‘‘Annual membership is only $10,’’ Mr Hill said.

‘‘We look forward to Heathcote and district residents getting behind the project which, when realised, will be a significant tourist attraction and acknowledgement to one of our nation’s true heroes, as the ‘Weary’ Dunlop statue at Benalla has proved to be.’’

The meeting will be held at the RSL hall in High St, Heathcote, from noon.

For information, phone Colin Carrington on 54332427.