AS part of the replanting of Woorndoo’s Avenue of Honour, Council is seeking the stories of service men and women from the community.

Moyne Shire mayor, Ian Smith said while the original planting was not previously recognised as an Avenue of Honour, a research report completed in 2020 said it was likely intended to be a memorial avenue.

“The report said the similarity of the species of trees, the time of planting to other avenues, and the employment of a returned serviceman in 1919 to plant the trees, suggests the avenue was always intended to be a memorial,” he said.

“We now recognise it as an Avenue of Honour and as we begin the replanting, we are seeking stories from the community about those who served in an effort to acknowledge those locals who served.

“Community members can head online to Council’s website and share their stories and photos, or pick up a form from the Mortlake Customer Service Centre.

“We’ll use those stories on interpretive signs and other materials to highlight the avenue.”

Cr Smith said 48 Silky Oaks were close to being ready for planting, with a community planting day planned for June 26, which will also include the unveiling of signage and a community lunch.

Stories of service can be submitted until Monday, May 30 via bit.ly/3MLXedl.