ISRAEL is a long way from Muswellbrook.
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But, on Tuesday, October 31, the two locations will be joined by a defining moment in history – the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Beersheba.
The conflict itself, a century ago, has been described by some as “the grandest charge of mounted men in history” and “without parallel in the history of warfare”.
To mark the occasion, and acknowledge the local contribution in 1917, a commemorative statue, Over the Top, will be officially opened and dedicated in Brook Street from 3pm.
Muswellbrook Shire mayor Martin Rush said it was a fitting way to honour those who served at Beersheba.
“There are four reasons why this has special significance in the Upper Hunter,” he explained.
“Muswellbrook is home of the 12/16th Hunter River Lancers, which are a successor unit of the Australian Light Horse Regiment.
“Secondly, a key focus of the memorial is the recognition of the valour of the Waler horse, a breed critical to the success of the battle.
“During the First World War, Walers were largely used by the Australian Light Horse – and a substantial number were bred in the Upper Hunter.
“Thirdly, the Walers were marshalled at Piercefield in Denman prior to being railed to port for deployment overseas.
“With one exception, the horses never returned to Australia.
“The statue, to be dedicated next Tuesday, will stand as a memorial to the service of those Walers and the regiments of the Australian Light Horse.
“And, lastly, the late Lieutenant-Colonel Donald Cameron hailed from Rouchel.
“He was well-known from World War I, as the commander of the 12th Australian Light Horse Regiment, which together with the 4th Australian Light Horse Regiment, captured the town of Beersheba from Turkish troops.
“So, we have a special connection.”
Another highlight will be the unveiling of Over the Top by the five mayors of Muswellbrook Shire – The Honourable John Jobling, OAM, MStJ – First Mayor of Muswellbrook (1974 – 1986), Mr Ian Wolfgang – Second Mayor of Muswellbrook (1986 – 1989), Mr Ian Seymour, OAM – Third Mayor of Muswellbrook (1989 – 1999), Brig. (Ret.) John Colvin, AM, RFD, ED – Fourth Mayor of Muswellbrook (1999 – 2008) and Councillor Martin Rush.
“I’m sure the community will be thrilled to see them,” Cr Rush said.
“They represent almost 50 years of local government.
“Council also recognises the considerable personal efforts of John Flood, John Colvin and members of the First World War Centenary Events Working Group; and appreciates the kind support of the Muswellbrook RSL Sub-Branch, Godolphin, Coolmore and Tutt Bryant.
“Sculptor Brett Garling must be acknowledged for his skill in executing this magnificent statue, too.”
All residents are invited to attend – and encouraged to gather in Brook Street, which will be closed for the duration of the event, before 2.45pm, when guests will assemble and the Mounting of the Guard and entry of the Light Horse starts proceedings.
Special guests at the opening and dedication will include members of the Cameron family, descendants of Lieutenant-Colonel Donald Cameron, DSO and Bar, Commanding Officer 12th Australian Light Horse Regiment 1917-1919.
The official ceremony starts at 3pm and will be followed by the church service at 4.30pm, at St Alban’s Anglican Church in Brook Street.
The congregation is asked to be seated by 4.20pm.