Replica ANZAC cenotaph takes place with Geraldton’s Living History Project

The replica cenotaph, which featured in last Sunday’s Anzac Day dawn service at Wonthella Oval, has since been given a new lease on life with the 11th Battalion Living History Unit.

The structure was built and donated to the Geraldton RSL last month by DIAB Engineering.

Sub-branch president Barry Stinson said DIAB had done a “fantastic” job on the three-quarter-sized replica.

Mr Stinson said the 500kg cenotaph, built with 3mm mild steel and sandblasted for a granite-like finish, was “crucial” to the dawn service and had left attendees impressed.

“Rather than have it gather dust at Birdwood House, the cenotaph was given to the battalion on Wednesday and will add to the experience out at the trench,” he said.

“Let’s hope next year we’re able to hold a regular service, but it’s great we’ve now got the replica if needed.”

Battalion president Chris Cox said it had been placed next to the memorial wall out at the Leane’s Trench Project and would be used for ceremonial enactments.

“Unfortunately we’re closed at the moment dealing with the aftermath of the cyclone,” he said. “We were hit pretty hard with considerable damage to the trench and our water and power infrastructure.

“But we’ll be very excited to welcome everyone back out once it’s safe again. The cenotaph looks fantastic out there.”