Published on 10 November 2026
Council has demonstrated its commitment to preserving the community's military heritage, allocating $17,000 in its 2025–2026 Budget to support Headstone Project Victoria's dedication of 20 veterans' graves at Queenscliff–Point Lonsdale Cemetery.
As a major financial supporter of the project, Council recognised the importance of ensuring that veterans buried in previously unmarked graves receive the recognition their service deserves.
The commemorative service, held on Sunday 8 November, brought together veterans’ families and descendants, Australian Defence Force representatives, community organisations and local dignitaries. Mayor Donnie Grigau was joined by Councillors Monahan, Rule and Cameron, along with CEO Jane Grover.
Mayor Grigau spoke at the ceremony saying the funding reflected Council's commitment to honouring the generations of servicemen and their families who helped shape the Borough. During his heartfelt speech Mayor Grigau went on to say, “Local government has a responsibility not only to provide services and maintain facilities, but also to protect the history and heritage that give our community its identity."
“A grave that was once unmarked will now tell a story. And that story will remain for generations to come.”
The Mayor acknowledged the significant volunteer effort behind the project, particularly founding member Chaplain Geoff Traill, President Colonel Bruce Murray AM, and Secretary and Treasurer Dr Bob Marmion.
He also thanked the researchers responsible for uncovering and documenting the veterans' histories: Karen Sherwell, Phil Maxsted, John Larsen, Siranne Hose-Gordon, Joe Murphy, Robyn Machin, Evan Donohue, Alan and Maria Sandbach, Geoff Traill and Crenagh Kelly.
Council also acknowledges the Australian Defence Force, Geelong Cemeteries Trust, other supporting organisations, and the families and descendants of the veterans.