The amendments come after a proposal by the Seaforth Sub-Branch of the RSL to create a new memorial space within Seaforth Esplanade Park, adjacent to the recreational hub.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was supportive of the creation of a respectful and prominent location to honour service and sacrifice but resolved to undertake community consultation to ensure any changes to the master plan reflected the needs of locals.
“We know from talking to residents that around 700 people attend the Seaforth Anzac Day service and they have outgrown the current memorial space,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This was reflected in the high level of engagement we received,” he said.
“There were 109 comments during the consultation and 98 per cent of those supported the RSL’s proposal.
“Council would like to thank the Seaforth community for their thoughtful and constructive feedback.
“We would also like to acknowledge the advocacy of the Seaforth Sub-Branch of the RSL who have really stepped up to ensure the Seaforth community has a memorial that fits their current needs.”
Mayor Williamson said there were two other changes approved to the master plan.
“The first is to increase the attraction of the outdoor community area in front of the Post Office,” he said.
“Residents want this area to be a flexible shared space enabling its use for outdoor dining and other activities, which will further build a sense of community and activate the area.
“There is also work to be done to optimise the layout of the camping grounds and undertake a range of improvements to ensure the reserve will continue to attract visitors to Seaforth.”
Seaforth RSL Sub-Branch Treasurer Peter Morris said the RSL sub-branch was extremely grateful for the support shown by council.
“All we initially sought was a letter of support for our concept, yet council have gone well beyond that, leaning forward in ways we didn’t anticipate,” Mr Morris said.
Mr Morris said the sub-branch had been doing a significant amount of work in the background to bring the concept to life.
“It’s been both rewarding and humbling to see so many parts of the community come together in support of a united cause,” he said.
“The defenders of our nation have put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. This project will create a dedicated space overlooking the beachfront, where our community and visitors can honour their service and reflect in quiet gratitude on the sacrifices they have made.
“The design will incorporate all-abilities access, ensuring the space is inclusive for all who serve and all who visit. It’ll include special features recognising the sacrifice of our war animals, along with thoughtful elements that reflect the experiences of veterans abroad.
“We are particularly looking forward to the upcoming Dawn Service, where attendees will be able to watch the sun rise over the ocean, a powerful and symbolic experience reflecting what many of our service personnel witnessed during times of conflict.”
Mr Morris said the group’s next priority was securing funding for the project.
“We will be looking to secure funding through grant applications and other streams of support,” he said.
“We welcome both financial and in-kind contributions from local businesses and community members who want to play a role in creating something of lasting historical significance for our Anzac heritage.”
Community consultation was undertaken over a three-week period from February 7 to March 1, 2026, engaging with a broad range of stakeholders including the Seaforth RSL Sub-Branch, Seaforth Progress Association, families connected to the existing memorial, local businesses, camping reserve caretakers and the wider community.
Based on the outcomes of the consultation, council has resolved to adopt the revised Seaforth Master Plan Report 2025 and reconfirm its support for the RSL’s proposal for a dedicated Place of Remembrance on the Seaforth beachfront.
Council will also undertake minor preparatory works, including the installation of a new flagpole at the designated location, ahead of Anzac Day.
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