SERVICE PROJECT: GALLIPOLI TRENCH
In Response to: Cyclone Seroja
Location: Geraldton, WA
Active: 23 July 2021 to 26 July 2021
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Background
On the 11th April 2021, Severe Tropical Cyclone Seroja hit Geraldton, Western Australia. Over 2 days it caused widespread damage in the mid-west Gascoyne regions, the worst hit being the small towns of Kalbarri and Northampton, with 70% of buildings damaged or destroyed. The focus now is on recovery.
11th Battalion Living History Unit, based in Geraldton, Western Australia, 400km north of Perth, are a team dedicated to researching and representing Western Australia’s first Battalion. The Gallipoli Trench, which is their recreation of a captured Turkish trench as taken by the 11th Battalion on the night of 31st July 1915, has been damaged to the extent of 60-80%.
Tasking
This is a project run by volunteers as a free service for those wanting to immerse themselves in the history of the battalion and experience the battle they have portrayed, with actors and sound effects for realism. The project has been shut down until repairs can be made, but they are hoping to reopen to the public at the end of July 2021.
The 11th Battalion AIF have sought assistance from Perth DRT through their connection to the local RSL.
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