Our war heroes are not forgotten

WHAT began as a passion to document the past people of Nanango's connection to the First World War became an eight-year project two locals will hold in their hearts for the rest of their lives.

Daun Clapperton and Robyn Peterson spent almost a decade with their heads in books and historical archives to put together We Will Remember Them, an account of the South Burnett's involvement in the Great War.

Initially a project that focused on Nanango's role in the war, the pair were approached by the then Mayor to write an account that featured the entire South Burnett.

Daun Clapperton said the pair readily accepted, but had no idea what they were in for.

"I did an awful lot of research at home, and we would work two days at Council to try and extract as much information and names from the National Archives records," Ms Clapperton said.

"It was a lot of work but it was the most amazing journey that I have travelled."

The account was completed by the Anzac Centenary last year, with the print version launched last week.

The project was made possible through the Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program to publish short stories of local Great War veterans.

Daun and Robyn have won various awards for their efforts, including the National Trust Heritage Award, the South Burnett Regional Council Cultural Award and the RSL Anzac of the Year.

The book is an informative and captivating account of how the Great War affected the South Burnett, even as it took place on the other side of the world.

It also provides information on the conditions of the way and some touching memorials of the fallen.

Having her own familial connections to Second World War and Vietnam, Ms Clapperton said there were many stories inside the collation that needed to be heard.

Copies of the book have been donated to the local libraries and schools and a limited number of copies will be available for purchase through RSL clubs in the region.

The account is also available for viewing on the council website at southburnett.qld.gov.au.

Fuente: http://www.southburnetttimes.com.au/news/our-war-heroes-are-not-forgotten/3061636/