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More plaques new chance for migrant recognition

Headshot of Nicolette Barbas
Nicolette BarbasSouth Western Times
South West Migrant Memorial project manager Charlie Martella and chief worker Lynne Bickley are encouraging those wishing to get their names on one of the last plaques to do so before the end of June.
Camera IconSouth West Migrant Memorial project manager Charlie Martella and chief worker Lynne Bickley are encouraging those wishing to get their names on one of the last plaques to do so before the end of June. Credit: Nicolette Barbas

The South West Migrant Memorial committee is inviting those who missed out on the first stage of the project to have their family’s name and story commemorated on one of the additional 224 plaques.

Located in Queen’s Gardens, the memorial has more than 550 names on plaques honouring individual migrants and represents 15 nationalities.

The memorial features a tree combining a trunk, branches and cascading leaves and was designed by Bunbury resident and project manager Charlie Martella.

“The response to our second stage has been overwhelming with more than 160 plaques already sold,” Mr Martella said.

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“We have about 40 free spaces left and are encouraging everyone wishing to buy one to do so quickly.”

Mr Martella said the project has been instrumental in recognising migrants.

“This is a very important project for the South West,” he said.

“The migrants did more than they have ever been credited for and this project recognises that.

“It also gives people an insight into the lives these migrants lived.”

Migrants wishing to purchase a plaque have until June 30.

“We are hoping to have the project completely finished by November in line with the opening of it almost two years ago,” Mr Martella said.

“I am very proud of this project and can’t wait to see it complete.”

For more information visit https://southwestmigrantmemorial.org/

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