Latrobe City Council joined the community to celebrate 100 years of Legacy, unveiling a celebratory plaque at the Commercial Road memorial site in Morwell on Monday 18 December.
Legacy is a charity organisation that has been supporting veterans and their families for over a century.
The charity has spread its operation throughout Australia and encompasses the widows and children of returned service personnel from all Wars and peace-keeping forces that Australia has participated in.
Legacy was founded in 1923 by a group of World One veterans, led by Morwell’s Lieutenant General Sir Stanley George Savige. Sir Stanley Savige was a highly decorated soldier of the Australian Army and the original founder of Legacy Australia.
Quotes attributable to Councillor Darren Howe – Mayor of Latrobe City Council:
Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Darren Howe acknowledged charitable works of Legacy and the memory of Stanley George Savige during the commemoration ceremony.
“The dedicated memorial to Sir Stanley Savige was erected in 2006, commissioned by Advance Morwell in partnership with Latrobe City Council, Morwell, Moe and Traralgon RSL’s and Morwell Historical Society,” said the Mayor.
“Legacy has provided stability, guidance and assistance to thousands of Australian families who have lost their loved ones to conflict and war.”
Quotes attributable to Councillor Graeme Middlemiss – Central Ward, Latrobe City Council:
Councillor Graeme Middlemiss said the commemoration event was a fantastic opportunity for the wider community to recognise its past.
“It’s important that Latrobe City recognises its history and its past, particularly for the fine work that Legacy has accomplished this past century.”
“This celebration was also an opportunity to remember the tremendous works of Sir Stanley George Savige, who was born in Morwell in 1890 and where his memorial resides.”
“Events such as these are important to commemorate and celebrate our shared history within the community.”
Quotes attributable to Steve Mayes, Latrobe Valley Legacy President:
Steve Mayes said the gathering was an important time to reflect on the past and the life of Sir Stanley George Savige – who served in the Australian Army in both WWI and WW2.
“Sir Stanley founded Legacy after WWI after genuine concern for the family members of deceased comrades. In both his military and civilian life, Sir Stanley was known for his personal leadership and community work as well as having a genuine interest in people’s welfare.
“I think a lot of history is lost, especially in our local towns. What Sir Stanley Savage did for Legacy and did for Morwell is very prudent for the day.”