Wyrallah Public School War Memorial ArchwayPrint Page

The archway commemorates former students of the school who served in World War Two. The archway was part of the gates and fence that were unveiled on Empire Day 1948. 

One of the most impressive ceremonies in the Wyrallah district was attended by a large crowd when gate and fence memorials were unveiled at Wyrallah School in honour of ex-students who served during World War II. The erection of the memorial was completed entirely by voluntary labour. The President of Wyrallah Parents and Citizens' Association (Mr. Geo. Smith) invited the 1914-18 and 1939-45 diggers to form a guard of honour in front of the memorial. Mr. Smith stressed the grand cooperative community spirit which led to the subscription of cost of materials and the formation of working bees for the erection of the memorial. Mesdames S. Kenwood and W. L. Walker representing mothers of lads who paid the supreme sacrifice unveiled a tablet bearing the inscription—"In memory of those who fell-1939-45". The second marble tablet bearing the inscription "In honour of those who served— 1939-45", was unveiled by Mesdames J. Webber and C. McPherson, representing the mothers of those ex-pupils who served in World War II. Mrs. E. C. Scrivener, one of the oldest ex-pupils present, conducted the women to and from the memorial.

Mr. H. L. Anthony M.H.R. officially performed the opening of the memorial gate. "The scene before me is typically Australian. Men and women, who pioneered this fine area, a small community school, children, teachers, and soldiers — these mean so much to Australia, said Mr. Anthony. "They represent the fight of life. To live with a minimum of interference, we must be ever on guard against current tendencies within the community to force citizens against their will." "The people whom you are honouring today, fought for something worth retaining— today and in the future," he said. The children rendered a programme of appropriate songs, verse, speeches and prayers. Mr. R. E. Churchward, President of Lismore R. S. League, addressed the children upon the significance of memorials. Mr. C. Hardy sponsored a vote of thanks to the Parents and Citizens for their tribute and beautification of the school grounds. Mr. Garner Tulk responded. "The parents and citizens of Wyrallah appreciate the assistance and encouragement given by the Minister for Education, and officers of the Education Department throughout the memorial scheme," said Mr. S. Hoskins. The District Inspector of Schools (Mr. R. G. Laws) responded on behalf of the Minister and the Education Department.
Northern Star (Lismore, NSW), 4 June 1948.

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