Stanley’s bushfire memorial – a tribute to local fire fighters

The Stanley community has used its bushfire memorial grant to create a tribute to local fire fighters and emergency service workers.

The Stanley Fire Fighters Tribute was declared open on 28 July 2012. It will be an enduring reminder of the courage and dedication of the fire fighters and emergency services workers, and a sanctuary for all in the community to gather and reflect on the experiences of Black Saturday and beyond.

Reflecting the local community’s experience, the design of this unique contemplative space relates to the four elements of fire, water, earth and air.  Central to the design is a fire pit for communal gatherings, to remind the community that fire is also a means of comfort, warmth, and fellowship. The site also includes a striking sculpture crafted from steel and local quartz rock.

Through the joint $10 million State/Commonwealth Community Recovery Fund for bushfire-affected communities, $2.5 million was set aside for bushfire memorials and commemorative events to help communities heal. The fund is administered by the Department of Planning and Community Development.

Indigo Shire Council was allocated $79,600 for the Stanley memorial and another at the Bruarong Public Hall.

Across Victoria’s bushfire-affected communities, around 50 significant and sensitive local memorials like these are being created as a focus for cherished memories and to help communities find peace and move forward.  They include memorial walls, sculptures, places of reflection, seating, story boards, a lookout tower, roadside stops, shelters, signage, plaques, a commemorative garden, and a rotunda.