Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann MP, on Remembrance Day opened a Memorial Drive dedicated to 58 soldiers from the Lowood region who did not return from WWI.

The 600-metre Centenary of Armistice Memorial Drive, lined by native trees planted for each soldier, was made possible by a $16,112 grant through the federal Armistice Centenary Grants Programme (ACGP).

Native Australian flora such as the Dawson River Weepers and Spirit of Anzac Grevilleas were planted along the Drive by local school students and descendants of the deceased soldiers.

Bronze plaques at the base of the trees honour local service men and women with their names, local residence and service details, and will be lit at night by solar lights.

The project aims to bring the community together to commemorate the contribution of those who have served.

Mr Neumann said he was honoured to open the Drive, which he said would serve as a living memorial of the sacrifice of local service men and women, and the impact the war and casualties had on small communities.

“The Centenary of the Armistice is one of the most important commemorative periods in Australia’s history.

“It’s important we continue to recognise the tragic loss of life, particularly felt in small, regional towns, and recognise the day the guns fell silent” Mr Neumann said.

The ACGP provided grants of between $3,000 and $50,000 for local community-based projects and activities that commemorate the end of the First World War, remembering Australian service men and women from all conflicts and celebrate a just and secure peace.