Ballajura Peace Park and War Memorial moves a step closer

7/12/04
Ballajura's proposed peace park and war memorial took a major step forward today, with Premier Geoff Gallop announcing that the State Government would provide $150,000 towards the project.
The Government will fund the project - to be built in front of Ballajura Community College, on Illawarra Crescent - as part of Western Australia's 175th anniversary celebrations.
"The Peace Park and War Memorial project will be a wonderful asset for the people of Ballajura - it will be a versatile, attractive place capable of meeting a number of community needs," Dr Gallop said.
"With terraced assembly areas to seat between 2,000 and 3,000 people, the park will be able to accommodate significant community events, such as Anzac Day and the International Day of Peace.
"The war memorial will also be a permanent reminder of the heroism, comradeship and humility embodied in those Western Australians who served, and fell, in war.
"And finally, but importantly, the park will be a place of peace and tranquillity - people will be able to come here, at any time, for quiet reflection."
The Premier made the announcement to members of the project working group, set up after last year's Anzac Day ceremony, held in the Ballajura Community College gymnasium.
"I understand Ballajura MLA John D'Orazio lamented to college principal, Dr Steffan Silcox, Bill Gaynor, of the Returned Services League, and Swan City councillors, that Ballajura didn't have its own war memorial - and it all went from there," Dr Gallop said.
The working group has prepared a preliminary plan, which is expected to be displayed for public comment at Ballajura Library next year.
As its centrepiece, the plan proposes a huge global water sphere, set on a raised podium, in front of which will be terraced assembly areas. There will also be a water sculpture, an olive grove and benches under the trees where people can go to sit and reflect.
A survey of Ballajura residents, conducted by Mr D'Orazio, revealed that some 70 per cent of respondents supported the peace park and war memorial concept.
The City of Swan has committed $30,000 towards the project, expected to cost $500,000, and Cowan MHR Graham Edwards will apply on behalf of the working groups for a Federal Government grant.
Private industry has also agreed to donate the water sphere centrepiece, valued at $120,000.
Premier's office: 9222 9475