Crook tables motion recognising Albany’s Anzac history
Posted on Tuesday, 21 February 2012
NATIONALS WA Federal Member for O’Connor Tony Crook MP has tabled a Private Member’s Motion calling on the Federal Parliament to formally recognise Albany’s role in the Anzac story.
Mr Crook said it was important that the Federal Government formally acknowledge Albany’s military history in the lead up to the Centenary of Anzac Commemoration in 2014.
“Albany holds a very significant place in Australia’s Anzac story,” Mr Crook said.
“It was the gathering place for the first convoy carrying Australian and New Zealand troops to war; and for many, it was the last time they stepped on Australian soil.”
The Motion also calls on both sides of Parliament to acknowledge the work undertaken by the Albany Centenary of Anzac Alliance and the National Commission on the Commemoration of the Anzac Centenary.
“These groups have been instrumental in putting Albany’s Anzac history on the Federal Government’s agenda.”
Mr Crook said a report by the National Commission in 2011 recommended that Albany play a focal role in the Anzac Centenary.
“The establishment of the Anzac Interpretive Centre was a key recommendation, and the Federal Government has already committed significant funding to get this project underway.
“The National Commission also recommended a re-enactment of the first convoy of vessels in King George Sound on November 1, 2014.”
Federal Minister for Veteran’s Affairs, Hon Warren Snowdon MP, had visited Albany twice at Mr Crook’s invitation.
“Clearly, the Federal Government is supportive of this project - having outlaid more than $1.5 million towards the Interpretive Centre – and I hope my Motion will pave the way for continued Federal support.”
Mr Crook tabled his Private Member’s Motion during the last sitting week of Parliament, and plans to speak on the motion during the March Parliamentary sittings.
Independent MP Andrew Wilkie seconded the Motion.