The Jarrahdale War Memorial has gone through a significant refurbishment over the last year. Jeanette Booth, a passionate resident, took up the challenge of restoring the historical War Memorial to honour and preserve the memory of those who died in service.
Jan Booth at Jarrahdale War Memorial
“As the wife of a serving member of the armed forces, remembrance has played a huge part of our lives; seeing the memorial in such a state of disrepair was heartbreaking. I want to ensure that future generations have a welcoming space to acknowledge the sacrifices made to ensure the freedoms we have today. “Jeanette Booth – Jarrahdale War Memorial Refurbishment Coordinator.
The Jarrahdale War Memorial was erected in 1923 to commemorate those from the district who died in service or in action in World War One, with a second plaque to commemorate those who died in service or action in World War Two.
‘The project came with challenges and wouldn’t have been done without the hard work and perseverance by our community, volunteers, local businesses, community groups who generously donated time, skills and supplies. We are also thankful for funding partners like Alcoa, the Australian Government and Hugh Jones MLA.’ Jeanette commented on the experience.
The restoration started eight months ago when Jeanette asked locals to come and lend a hand to clean up dead leaves and rubbish. From there, Jeanette and her team of volunteers ticked off a long list of refurbishments, including replacement, sanding, and staining of bench planks, pruning and tidying up of surrounding bushes and trees, refurbishment of the memorial plaque, pathway edging laid, and installation of a Jarrah post for a tribute plaque. In preparation for Anzac day, the team will replace rotted railway tie steps leading up to the memorial, instal a handrail and commercial solar lights, and complete the remaining landscaping to finalise the project.
A new installation of steel silhouettes featuring the Aboriginal artwork of Melissa Spillman has tied the project together perfectly. When asked about the artwork, Jeanette replied, “It was important to incorporate the indigenous community as part of the works, and Melissa Spillman’s artwork is such a powerful reminder for future generations.”
Special thanks to:
Alcoa, Australian Government, Hugh Jones MLA , Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale, SJ Men’s Shed, Moddexx, HMAS Sterling Pipe & Plate workshop, Melissa Spillman (Maarakool Art), Dwellingup Sawmill, Scouts WA – Manjedal Activities Centre and the Jarrahdale community.