Farleigh CenotaphPrint Page

Farleigh Cenotaph commemorates those who have served in conflicts in which Australia has been involved. Funding was received through the Anzac Centenary Program in 2015 for replacement of the existing memorial. 

The old Cairn and Flag Pole located within the Farleigh Mill grounds was constructed at the encouragement (and probably the financial backing) of Mr Tom Mulherin to honour those who were killed in World War One.  Mr Mulherin had served in World War I (1914 - 1918) including Gallipoli and returned to Mackay on 13 Mar 1918. 

The RSL sub-branch attempted to research the history of the Memorial at Farleigh, and believe that the Cairn was constructed circa 1970. Concrete 'cancer' started to affect the current Cairn and significant restoration work was required to prevent further deterioation.  Additionally, the location of the Cairn and aspect was less than ideal.  With numbers attending the Dawn Service increasing every year (2014 an estimated 600+ people) many do not have easy visual access to the commemoration activities at the Memorial. The consensus amongst sub-branch members was to construct a new memorial, in the same area, but with a better aspect and access by the public.  Additionally, it was intended that the new memorial have lighting to highlight the memorial in the dawn light and have dual flag poles to allow for the Australian and New Zealand flags to be flown.

The sub-branch did not have the funding available to undertake this project and sought funding support from external sources.  Mackay Sugar, Farleigh Mill, was approached regarding the intent to construct a new memorial in the parkland adjacent to the current cairn.  Mill management has given the sub-branch full support for the project, but has indicated that it has no ability to support the project in a financial manner.  It was decided to apply for funding through the “Centenary of Anzac Grant” which provided some $26,000 to enable the project to be undertaken. All work on the new Memorial was completed in early 2017 and it was dedicated on 18 March 2017. The plaque was unveiled by by the State President of the RSL, Mr Stewart Cameron and the Sub-Branch President Mr Greg Smith.  Members of the Mulherin family were present to witness the dedication.  The old Cairn was left standing for historical purposes (minus the flag pole).
RSL Farleigh & Northern Beaches Sub-Branch. 

Location

Details

Dedication