The unveiling of the works Queensland Rail had completed at the Julia Creek RSL were recognised on Wednesday (June 14).
The Julia Creek RSL have made many improvements to their facility over the past few years, including building renovations and the erection of the new War Memorial, and have since extended it with Sergeant Mark Mulligan leading the way.
Julia Creek Officer in Charge Sergeant, Mark Mulligan, approached Queensland Rail to see if they were interested in extending the RSL memorial garden.
“I was pleasantly surprised to see their level of enthusiasm they showed to the idea of putting in a pathway around the garden,” he said.
“Not only did the team lay the track, cutting and bending the rail they also extended the retaining wall. and they did all of this on a leisure day.”
Sgt Mulligan said the RSL wanted to pay tribute not only to the horsemen but to the special bond that extended to the rail link.
“Talking to locals, they informed me that it was from this area that a lot of the horses were sourced for the Army during the first world war and they were transported from here by the railways,” Sgt Mulligan said.
“As you can see the link with the railway has been the very reason for the towns founding.
“The link with the railways is evident as you can see. We have tried to capture tat fact in the retaining walls, and pathway. As you walk around the path you will see the skill needed to bend and fashion the walk and it looks great.”
Queensland Rail staff and members of the RSL developed their relationship since Queensland Rail conducted the maintenance works between Hughenden and Cloncurry in the middle of last year.
McKinlay Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Peter Fitchat, said Queensland Rail had made a much appreciated positive contribution to the community.
“Both in the work done to improve the railway line, but also in re-connecting with our community in both in a recreational and work capacity,” he said.
McKinlay Shire Council Mayor Belinda Murphy said, “The War Memorial, Light Horse Statue and general improvements made to the RSL have been wonderful to see and a highlight feature for our community and visitors”.