After a six year journey the West Sale Migrant Memorial construction has been completed. On Sunday the 24th of April 2005 at 12 noon a formal unveiling and blessing ceremony will take place at West Sale.

The establishment of the permanent memorial is the first of its type in Gippsland, and is believed to be the first of the five Holding Centres in Victoria during the post World War II immigration period.

The significance of this project has been recognised by both State and Local Governments through generous financial and in kind support. Much support has also been received from various organisations, agencies and the wider community.

Although the establishment of a permanent memorial in West Sale was the “destination” of the project, it was the journey which in many ways has been equally if not more significant. The cooperation between all those who participated, their determination and good will has created and nurtured a spirit which will live on long after the memorial is unveiled.

Official guest list for the unveiling ceremony include; Peter McGauran MP, Peter Ryan MLA, Phil Davis MP, George Lekakis Victorian Multicultural Commission, The Right Reverend Bishop Driver, Vicar General Dan McCarten, retired Bishop Jones, Mayors of Wellington and Latrobe City, other distinguished members of organisations and the wider community.

The ceremony starts at 12 noon at the West Sale Aerodrome adjacent to the Terminal building in Williams Drive. A light lunch will be provided.

For further information contact Don Santowiak of Gambler’s Help Gippsland at Anglicare Gippsland on 51339998.