Local communities played a pivotal role in keeping alive the memories of the men and women who served Australia in wars, conflicts and peace operations, the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Bruce Billson, said today. Mr Billson unveiled a plaque to open the Mount Eliza Memorial and Heritage Garden, which honours the memory of local residents who have served Australia in wars and conflicts or made a significant contribution to the development of Mount Eliza.

"Throughout our nation's history, men and women from communities such as Mount Eliza have made great sacrifices to protect the freedom and democracy we enjoy today," the Minister said. "The Mount Eliza Heritage and Memorial Garden demonstrates the community's appreciation of the contribution of our servicemen and women to the development of our nation, and the importance of preserving their memory and legacy for posterity," he said.

Minister Billson said the Mount Eliza Heritage and Memorial Garden was a joint project of the Mornington Peninsula Shire, Mount Eliza Community Association, Rotary Club, Order of Australia Association and the RSL. The Australian Government supported the project with a grant of $4000 under its Saluting Their Service Commemorations program. Located near the Mount Eliza Community Centre, off Canadian Bay Road, the Heritage and Memorial Garden will be used for commemorations such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies. It will also serve as a place for
contemplation and reflection, and allow local residents to pay their respects to those who have passed on.

"Communities across the nation have lost more than 102,000 citizens in the service of Australia and it is important that this high price is not forgotten," Mr Billson said. "Through memorials such as the Mount Eliza Heritage and Memorial Garden, we are better able to preserve the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for our sake," he said.