Contributed by Carole Lewis
ON Friday April 11 2025, the Maleny community gathered to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Walk of Remembrance at Maleny Soldiers Memorial Hospital.
First opened on a sunny Saturday afternoon in April 2015 by then Honourable Mal Brough MP, the Walk honours local World War I servicemen and stands as a peaceful space for reflection.
Originally spearheaded by Margaret Moss and a dedicated team of hardworking Auxiliary volunteers including Norma McLeod, Glennis Manning, Eonne Ranson, Glenys Hiley, Paula Richardson and Errol Richardson.
The project brought together local talent including stonemason Wayne Markwort and landscaper John Hajncl.
Their efforts created a moving tribute featuring memorials, sculptures, and an honour plaque honouring the servicemen who enlisted from the district.
There are also individual plaques engraved with the names of those killed in action, gardens, pathways, a timber arbour with a reflective garden, and an entrance to the Walk.
The Walk of Remembrance is a testament to the depth of interest in the Anzac legend, as well as the high regard in which the Hospital is held by the community.
Ten years on, the Walk remains lovingly maintained by the Hospital Auxiliary, administration, and community groups including the Men’s Shed, Rotary, and the Woodies.
An inscription at its entrance reads: “May all who pass this way find peace and tranquillity.”
The Walk of Remembrance stands as a lasting legacy of community spirit, remembrance, and gratitude for those who served in World War 1.
