The Australian government has approved funding to support restoration works at the Anzac Memorial on 42nd Street in Chania, commemorating a key site from the Battle of Crete during the Second World War.
The grant of $5,878 (€3,600) will go towards improving the memorial in Tsikalaria, including restoration work and the installation of new information signage.
The memorial, unveiled in 2016, marks the location of a major clash on May 27, 1941, when Anzac troops fought German mountain commandos during the Battle of Crete.
A new bilingual website in English and Greek will also be developed through private funding, allowing visitors to access historical information via QR code at the monument.
Australian Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh said the funding recognises the sacrifices made by Australian forces during the campaign.
“We must never forget the bravery and sacrifice of the Australians who fought alongside their Greek, British and New Zealand allies in the Battle of Crete, 85 years ago,” he said.
Chania Mayor Panagiotis Simandirakis welcomed the support, describing the memorial as a symbol of the longstanding connection between Greece, Australia and New Zealand.
“This relationship is a timeless testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought here and continues to unite our communities in a spirit of respect and friendship,” he said.
The restoration project is supported by the Municipality of Chania, diaspora organisations in Australia and New Zealand, and the St George’s Greek Orthodox Church in Sydney.
