Anzac flags to fly over town Council agrees to pay for half of cost

Matamata-Piako District Council has accepted a proposal to foot half the bill for Anzac flags in Matamata.

At its corporate and operations committee meeting on March 25, the council resolved to contribute $1670 towards the purchase of flags for the Matamata Public Relations Association to display in commemoration of Anzac Day.

The PRA asked the council to partner with them on this project, stating many towns and cities around the country have organised special Anzac Day activities.

‘‘ The PRA believe that it is important that we in the Mata- mata Piako district also find some way to recognise Anzac Day, especially on this 100th year,’’ PRA manager Sue Whiting said.

Whiting said the association’s role was to support and promote the entire community.

‘‘ When we realised the commemorations were fast approaching, we felt we should recognise the sacrifice and efforts of those who went to the world wars.’’

Whiting said through this sort of project she and the PRA had realised what a great village Matamata was.

‘‘Tainui Press came up with the strong and bold design and Mata- mata Motor Trimmers had the flags printed within five days. Comag and Stanleys once again put the flags up free of charge and the Matamata Business Association were happy for the flags to be flown from their flag poles,’’ she said.

‘‘ Between everyone, we have recognised the importance of Anzac Day here in Matamata.’’