After the success of the inaugural ANZAC Day celebration in 2015, the CPA felt it was time Chidlow had a lasting retreat where appreciation for those who paid the ultimate price – not only for their country but also their community – could be shown. The connection between Chidlow and wartimes extends back to WWI when out of 88 locals who received honourable mention, 12 did not return. (Refer Chidlow History: army training camps)
As well as providing an obvious historical link to the past, have a relevant connection to the area, the retreat needed to be appropriate for the present and have value for the future.
Careful consideration was given in the creation of its design and the materials chosen for its construction to reflect the significant role Chidlow played in the training of troops in World War II.
Accordingly, negotiations started with the Shire of Mundaring and our ANZAC Memorial was completed in 2016.
Appropriately, following its inception in late 2016, the Chidlow and District RSL Sub-Branch took over the organisation of the ANZAC Day celebration as well as the maintenance and continued upgrading of the memorial. Since then, a memorial garden has been planted which as it grows will not only enhance its beauty but increase its significance as a remembrance icon for the Chidlow community, always connecting the past with the future.