The Coolatai community has gathered ahead of ANZAC Day to officially unveil a Founding Families War Memorial Monument.
Located an hour North-West of Inverell, the small village has a population of fewer than 200 – but has history of servicemen and women that is extensive.
The tribute was the brainchild of locals Michelle Coulton and Angela Stewart and includes the names of all locals who have served Australia in all wars and conflicts.
Some families have multiple generations of servicemen and women engraved including Andrew Campbell who was in the Army Reserve post World War II and his paternal grandfather George Suter who served in World War II.
Suter, now deceased, returned home to Australia but suffered life changing fragmentation grenade wounds to his head when serving in New Guinea.
Among those to be commemorated was local veterinarian Kathleen Farr, who looked after horses and other serving animals during the Great War.
The plaques, statues and poppies were erected with the support of the local community and the Gwydir Shire Council and a significant grant from the State Government.
Member for Northern Tablelands, Adam Marshall attended the unveiling and was impressed with the effort of the Coolatai community.
The memorial will stand as an important attraction for tourists to stop by and for locals to learn more about their service history.
Lest we forget.
