The Bathurst RSL Sub Branch has created a new role within their committee for the purpose of representing the branch's association with the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon in the wider community.
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The volunteer role, officially titled the Sub Branch custodian for the Carillon, has been handed to local historian Andrew Fletcher, well known for his passionate interest in Bathurst's military history.
Mr Fletcher said he looks forward to representing the Sub Branch on commemorative matters related to the Carillon.
"The Carillon is the centre of remembrance in Bathurst, and to be asked to represent the Sub Branch on matters related to the landmark is an honour and a privilege," he said.
Mr Fletcher has had plenty to do with the Carillon in his role as the Bathurst Historical Society's military curator
In 2018, he played an instrumental role in the research and erection of a plaque commemorating 24 Bathurst nurses who served overseas during World War I, of which there was little acknowledgement previously.
Through his new role, Mr Fletcher wants to extend the appeal of the Carillon as a centre of remembrance for veterans of recent wars and current servicemen and women.
"The Carillon is not just a memorial for the earlier wars, we want to open up the opportunity for veterans of Afghanistan and Iraq to be more involved in commemorative discussion," he said.
"This memorial is theirs just as much as it is for veterans of the World Wars, Korea and Vietnam."
Sub Branch president David Mills said Mr Fletcher's appointment to the role is a 'no-brainer.'
"Andrew has a passion for military history and veterans, and he will represent Sub Branch interests in various community activities involving the Carillon," Mr Mills said.
"The Carillon is the focus of the Sub Branch's activities on Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, and part of our role is to ensure the commemorative aspect of this memorial is maintained."
With works to complete the Carillon nearing completion [the clavier is hoping to be installed by September], Mr Mills said the Sub Branch is in the process of producing a Book of Remembrance for the memorial.
"The book was included in the original proposal for a memorial in Bathurst to include a roll of honour for those who have served," he said.
"We're planning to produce a physical and digital copy of the book, the former of which will reside in the Carillon."
"There's no decision yet on where to house the latter."