New arrangement for Eternal Flame confirmed

Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett and Energy Minister Peter Collier today confirmed a new partnership arrangement to preserve the Eternal Flame at Geraldton's HMAS Sydney II Memorial.

As of this week, Verve Energy will take over the responsibility for the cost of gas used in the Eternal Flame after reaching an agreement with the City of Geraldton Greenough.

The issue was brought to the State Government's attention by Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney who lobbied government to ensure the memorial's flame kept burning.

"Mr Blayney is to be commended for bringing the threat to the Eternal Flame to the Government's attention.  That action has helped ensure its future," Mr Barnett said.

"I am pleased that this arrangement with Verve has been reached to enable the Eternal Flame to continue burning to honour the 645 sailors who were on the Sydney and fought and died for Australia."

Mr Collier said the arrangement with Verve replaced the previous arrangement the City of Geraldton-Greenough had with Western Power.

"While some people were critical of Western Power's decision that it would no longer meet the $1,600 annual gas bill for the eternal flame, credit rightly needs to be given to Verve for coming on board and meeting the cost," Mr Collier said.

"Verve is WA's largest electricity generator and this action of corporate citizenship is a welcome one."

Office of the Premier - 9222 9475