State's contribution to Albany Peace Park commemorates war heroes

The Albany Peace Park continues to take shape with the State Government's $1.4million contribution allowing for a Memorial Wall and wreath-laying area to be in place for this year's ANZAC Day commemorations.

The Premier today attended a dedication ceremony at the Peace Park in Albany and paid tribute to more than 30,000 troops who assembled and departed from the port during World War I.

During the election campaign, the Liberal Party committed $433,000 toward the construction of the Peace Park. That amount has been boosted to $1.4million through Lotterywest and the Department of Planning.

The 60m memorial wall includes a wreath-laying area and viewing platform. In-ground lighting illuminates the area at night, allowing the community a special place to honour and commemorate their fallen.

"Western Australia has a proud ANZAC tradition with more and more people flocking to services each year," Mr Barnett said.

"I am delighted that Albany, the place of the first dawn service in 1923, now has a beautiful, special place where people can learn more about Australia's role in times of war and honour the fallen.

"The Albany Peace Park is a significant community project and I congratulate the City of Albany and the RSL for their dedication to the project.

"The Australian character has evolved from times of conflict and it is important we reflect on the sacrifices that our servicemen and women made so that we could enjoy the freedoms we have today.

"I also think Anzac Day is about recognising those who were left behind to keep the nation going and had to deal with the trauma of war when their loved ones returned.

"I urge all West Australians, particularly people that have never been to a service, to get along to a local service held in their community.  I think they will find it a very moving experience."