New additions to park sit proudly ahead of Anzac Day
Date published: 23 April 2025
Three new park benches will be hot property on Anzac Park this Friday thanks to a generous donation by the North Queensland TPI Association (Totally & Permanently Disabled Ex-Service Persons Association).
Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the donation of the three custom-made park benches, each representing one of Australia’s three Defence forces was a welcome addition to Anzac Park.
“These new benches, representing Navy, Army and Air force now take pride of place permanently under this amazing tree in Anzac Park and are a reminder of the sacrifice of defence force personnel and their families have made for our country,” Cr Greaney said.
“Council was proud to work with the TPI to install these beautiful benches as part of what is such a wonderful initiative.
“I think it’s a lovely legacy and I’d like to thank Pop and the TPI for their contribution to Anzac Park, I think it’s a very fitting tribute.”
North Queensland TPI Association President, Warren (Pop) Duscha said it was fantastic to see the three benches sitting side by side, each representing one of Australia’s armed forces.
“TPI association has been here since 1951, we have a cross section of all services and we’re here to help partners, widows and families of our defence force personnel with their welfare,” Mr Duscha said.
“These benches are now here forever, a lot of research went into their design so it’s fantastic to have them installed ahead of Anzac Day.
“With Anzac Day approaching it is a chance to reflect on our mates who aren’t here anymore, and we’d like to thank Townsville and the Council for all the support they’ve given us over the years.”
Councillor Greaney said the benches were a great opportunity to educate the community on the sacrifice men and women had made for their families, community and country.
“It’s important we educate the next generation about the past and what the incredible work the Defence forces have done for Australia, and we should be very lucky we can stand here today, they fought for our freedom and we should be forever grateful for that,” Cr Greaney said.
“It is lovely for people to be able to sit, it may be a place of solace for people or for young families to understand the sacrifice men and women have made in the defence of our country.”
For more information on North Queensland TPI Association, visit their website. For information on Townsville Anzac Day commemorations, visit What's On Townsville.
