Mt Clarence ready for Anzac Centenary

• State Government provides $5.84million funding to restore Mt Clarence

• Works include new platform, Avenue of Honour, signage and site access

• Albany to host national launch of Anzac Centenary from Oct 31 to Nov 2, 2014

Major restorative works on Albany's Mt Clarence were officially unveiled today ahead of the Anzac Centenary commemorations to be held in the city in November.

Premier Colin Barnett said the $5.84million upgrades, made possible by $2.84million in State Government Royalties for Regions funding, had transformed the Mt Clarence memorial precinct, doubling its capacity for the Anzac Day dawn service to about 4,000 people.

"The works, led by the City of Albany, have turned this historic precinct into a world-class visitor destination - not only for the upcoming Anzac Centenary commemorations, but for generations to come," Mr Barnett said.

Works included refurbishment of the Desert Mounted Corps Memorial, landscaping, upgraded lighting and improved disability access.  The City of Albany and the Great Southern Development Commission also contributed funds towards the development of the Padre White Lookout.

"To date, the State Government has committed more than $9million towards Anzac Centenary infrastructure initiatives in Albany, including the major upgrade at Mt Clarence and construction of the National Anzac Centre on Mt Adelaide," the Premier said.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the infrastructure upgrades confirmed Albany as one of the most important military heritage sites in Australia.

"Royalties for Regions has supported this project in recognition of the significant role it will play in commemorations honouring the Anzac tradition," Mr Redman said.

         Fact File

• The first dawn service in Australia was held in Albany in 1918 when a young Anglican chaplain, Padre Arthur Ernest White, who served as chaplain with the 44th Battalion AIF, celebrated the Requiem Mass for the Battle Dead at St. John's, Albany

• November 1, 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the departure of Australian and NZ troops from Albany to the First World War

• $265,000 has been allocated to revitalise Albany's Stirling Terrace for its Convoy Commemorative Event through the 2014-15 Heritage Grants Program, while Lotterywest has provided up to $800,000 to the City of Albany to revamp Stirling Terrace and create a new town square

• More information about planned activities at http://www.anzacalbany.com.au    

Premier's office - 6552 5000

Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700