Book launched for genealogical society
A book which records the lives of World War I veterans buried in the Warragul Cemetery was launched at a special function at the Warragul RSL clubrooms last week.
The book, written by members of the Warragul Genealogical Society ‘A Tribute to Those who Served’ was launched by Baw Baw Shire mayor Mikaela Power, Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood and Member for McMillan Russell Broadbent.
Cr Power praised the work of the genealogical society compiling the book.
“I also acknowledge and thank the many supporting individuals and groups who contributed their time, resources and knowledge to help make this book a reality.
“I’m sure it would have been quite the task to put this all together - your efforts are appreciated.
Through this book we can learn a deeper understanding of the people who were, and remain, a part of our local community,” she said. Mr Blackwood said the members of the genealogical society had conducted a great deal of research to ensure that the lives of people who returned from the war were recorded before the information was lost.
He said it was fitting that servicemen who had died in the war and were memorialised at the cemetery were also included.
Mr Broadbent said while many returned from the war some of those only lived for a few weeks after their return and others were left to live with the long term effects of war.
“The stress on them was so great if affected a whole generation,” he said.
The book is available to purchase for $45 and can be posted with an additional charge.
More information is available from treasurer@westgippslandgenealogy.com
The society is working to produce similar books for people buried and memoralised at cemeteries in Drouin, Drouin West and Yarragon.