AN initiative from the Donnybrook RSL to modernise and update the Donnybrook War Memorial is close to fruition.
A $42,000 grant from Lotterywest has funded the project, including the upgrade to the memorial itself and a revamp of the surrounds.
RSL President Ric Evans said they had taken out the garden beds at the front of the area, and planted red and white roses in new rose beds that would embrace the memorial.
Lights on either side will shine onto the memorial, and will line the path. The rest of the area will be lawn.
Mr Evans said the pathway would be upgraded and the steps had been removed for safety reasons, giving easy access to wheelchairs on a sloping ramp.
“Eventually we want to put bollards and chains behind the roses. We may have to raise money for that,” he said. “Some local businesses have already offered to put money towards it, so we’ll just see how much it ends up costing us.”
Mr Evans said the Memorial was an asset to the main street, which alongside the amphitheatre, would be a highlight for visitors to come and enjoy the area.
The upgrade comes ahead of Poppy Day and Remembrance Day in November, along with the 100 year ANZAC celebrations next year.
There will also be a display about the anniversary at the Donnybrook Library, along with a morning tea and speakers, on the afternoon of Tuesday September 23.
Mr Evans said the RSL had received a lot of generous help from all of their contractors, and said a special thanks to Russell Jones and the Shire for their efforts.