A new memorial honouring servicemen and women has opened at the corner of Breakwater and Barwon Heads Road.
As part of the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade, the memorial was relocated from South Barwon Reserve. The memorial includes 3 bronze commemorative plaques from the original structure, paying tribute to the men and women of Belmont who served during World War II, honouring Michael F. Duff, a trustee for the original reserve from 1926-1958, and the Committee of Management, which installed the original gates to the South Barwon Reserve in 1947.
Andrew Hanns, president of the Geelong RSL, laid a wreath as 18 of Mr Duff’s relatives were present to partake in an ode and moment of silence at the dedication for the memorial.
Grandson, John Duff, said he was excited that fate had returned the memorial back to where the old gates had previously stood. “We’re pleased the new memorial will continue to recognise the contribution of Michael and his work for over 30 years as trustee for the reserve and as an important community member in Belmont,” he said.
The new memorial features a freestanding obelisk and bench seating and is located close to existing pathways and includes a drinking fountain and bike rack. Three pencil pine trees have also been planted alongside the memorial.
On Remembrance Day, staff working on the Barwon Heads Upgrade gathered at the memorial to observe a moment of silence.
The Barwon Heads Road Upgrade is expected to be completed in late 2023.