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A community campaign to stop the North Fort Museum moving to Victoria appears to have been won, said Manly MP Mike Baird.
“Well done to the hundreds of local residents who signed our petition to protest against the Defence Department’s plans to move the museum to Puckapunyal – our voices have been heard,” said Mr Baird.
In response to a question put by Warringah MP Tony Abbott, the Federal Defence Minister has stated there are no plans to relocate the Museum. Previously the Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Mike Kelly, had said it was a long-term aim.
“This is a victory for commonsense. The Artillery Museum is an important part of our local history and belongs in Manly.
“I know many in our community, particularly the dedicated volunteers, will be relieved their opposition has been heard.”
As part of the campaign, Mr Baird wrote to the Federal Defence Minister and met with the NSW Minister for Veterans Affairs and secured his support.
Mr Baird also enlisted the involvement of RSL Clubs and plans to table the community’s petition when Parliament resumes in September.
“If there are any signs the move is back on the cards we will reignite the community campaign,” he said.
“There are many local residents with deep connections to the Museum, who thankfully will continue to have access to this historic place.”
Sarah Neave’s grandfather was one of the men who first set up the Museum and her great-grandfather was a commandant at North Head. Sarah said her family was gutted at the thought of moving the Museum.
“It is a memorial, a historical tribute to those who gave their lives. It was set up by volunteers, if they want to train troops then bring them to Manly – show them the tunnels, the gun posts, the history where it was made! Don’t take away our nation’s history, don’t take my family’s legacy,” Sarah said.
MEDIA: Lisa Harrington - 0406 726 880
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