Moorak Primary School has officially opened a garden with a special meaning, paying tribute to a late community icon.
The Charlie Miller Memorial Garden, dedicated to the former World War 2 veteran and community hero Rowley Charles (Charlie) Miller OAM, was opened last week on behalf of Mr Miller by Mount Gambier RSL President Bob Sandow.
“I do know one thing, Charlie would love to be here,” Mr Sandow said.
Mr Sandow said Mr Miller loved coming to Moorak Primary School and said the garden looked excellent.
“It’s just a fitting memorial to Charlie, and not only to Charlie but to other veterans as well,” he said.
Student Makayla Fleming sung the Anzac version of ‘I Am Australian’ and School Captains Ben Harfull and Ethan Brook gave a welcome speech.
The captains said they were very proud to be a part of the opening and said they loved Mr Miller coming to their school to tell his stories.
Penne Paltridge’s Middle Primary class began to organise and plan the garden three years ago, which was thoughtfully designed with special elements such as rosemary for remembrance.
Mr Miller had planned to open the garden himself, but due to his passing last year, the garden was named the ‘Charlie Miller Memorial Garden’ in his honour.
The captains thanked Principal Peter Mitchinson for helping them over the last three years, Vanessa for helping look after the garden and Christy Wallace for painting the memorial sign.
The garden received donations of plants and garden beds from Mrs Young and Bunnings, a special large rock from Heather Cram and a bench seat from the Abbott family, painted by members from the 5, 6, 7 class, Christy Wallace and Ms Paltridge.
The Abbott family are descendants of leading Aircraftman Geoffrey David Abbott, who was buried in the Airmen’s Graves at Lake Terrace Cemetery.
School Captain Ben has laid a wreath at the Airmen’s Graves for Anzac Day each year.
“It’s a good way to remember Charlie and the people who have served us in war,” Ben said.
“I have just enjoyed being involved in the school and just helping out where I can and going every year.”
