Right before us stands the Montrose War Memorial. It’s more than just stone and inscription. It’s a silent witness to history. This memorial is in Montrose in Melbourne’s outer east.
The Montrose War Memorial is a white and grey marble obelisk. It rests on a plinth of grey granite. The memorial was opened on April 25 1947. Dr Major Ian T Cameron conducted the opening.
Take a moment to read the plaque. It says, “In Memory Of All The Men And Women.” Names are inscribed honoring those who served. The Lilydale & District War Memorials Committee appreciates the donation of this plaque by The Rotary Club of Montrose & District.
The Montrose War Memorial is dedicated to those who served. It specifically honors the “gallant sons of Montrose” who participated in the Great War of 1914-1918.
Sadly the Montrose War Memorial was defaced. During Remembrance Day, anti-Israel graffiti was scrawled on it. Slogans like “Stop the genocide in Gaza” and “Free Palestine” were written. “Ceasefire” was painted in large red letters on the obelisk.
The community quickly responded to the vandalism. A council team cleaned the Montrose memorial. They used high-pressure hoses and brushes to remove the graffiti. This was done before the Remembrance Day service.
The defacing of the Montrose Memorial sparked outrage. Defence Minister Richard Marles condemned the act. He stated that defacing a war memorial does nothing to advance any cause. Opposition leader Peter Dutton called the incident “absolutely disgusting”.
The Montrose War Memorial stands as a testament. It remembers those who served and sacrificed. It also reminds us of the importance of respect and remembrance. Let us stand uncovered.