Horsham Historical Society will receive $13,500 towards its project to document Horsham’s First World War story.

John and Gillian Francis are compiling a book with the help of 19 volunteer researchers.

Historical society president Rod Jenkinson said it would be an important resource that could be used to educate younger generations. 

“A lot of people lost their lives for Australian freedom and I think it’s important to be honouring them,” he said.

Researcher Fiona Carine said the book was about the involvement of Horsham and district people in the First World War. 

“We’ve had great support from the Wimmera Association of Genealogists,” she said.

“In fact, we’ve had great support from a range of community organisations and individuals who have provided access to letters, diaries, documents, honour rolls, photos and other papers. 

“Brought together in a book, the information and other detailed research reveals a very interesting story about the region’s involvement in the First World War.” 

Horsham Rural City Council will receive $7400 to stage a two-month exhibition starting in August at Horsham Regional Art Gallery.

The exhibition will show First World War memorabilia and chart the impact of the war on Horsham and surrounding communities.

Rupanyup RSL will receive $13,000 to install a monument in the centre of town to recognise construction of the town’s Avenue of Honour in June 1918.

Rupanyup RSL secretary Anne Matheson said the funding would help ensure the history of Rupanyup was not forgotten.

“People are much more aware of what happened during the wars,” she said. 

“There seems to be an increase in the need to know more about it and that’s all part of what we’re doing.”

Ararat Rural City Council will receive $9000 to establish a First World War memorial to honour those who served from Ararat district. 

The memorial will be on lawns next to the RSL building. 

Ararat Legacy Club will receive $7000 to restore the memorial to Sir Cyril Bingham Brudenell White at the Buangor Cemetery.

Stawell RSL will get $6171 to buy seven First World War uniforms for the Stawell 303 Army Cadet Unit to wear during Anzac Day services.

Yarriambiack Shire Council will receive $3560 to publish a register of servicemen and one servicewoman from Warracknabeal district who served in the First World War.

Veterans Affairs Minister Michael Ronaldson said the projects would help young Australians understand the freedoms that were enjoyed today.

“They will ensure that community-based commemoration is at the heart of Anzac,” he said.