Nathan Spicer
“A LAND fit for heroes” was the catchcry for the Soldier Resettlement Scheme following World War I.
On the return of 78,000 Victorian servicemen from the trenches of France and Belgium, many struggled to find work.
Thus a scheme was developed to give them a chance to not only have a livelihood but gain a reward for their tremendous service to their country.
About 12,000 men took up the offer and were leased farming land across Victoria between 1919 and 1935, including in Woorinen.
Last Sunday, Woorinen remember their soldier settlers in marking the 100th anniversary of the first settlement.
“We had a display set up in the library with photos, maps and names of the people, and gave an overview on the soldier settlement scheme, how it was started, and of course, afternoon tea – we can’t forget about that,” event organiser Julie Whateley said.
“We talked about the process they had to go through to be a part of the program.
“Both lots of my grandparents were involved in the program, so we used their applications as examples and then we spoke on how the community started – the roads, rail, football club, churches, schools, scouts and electricity when it came to the district.”
Visitors learned about the successes and failures of the soldiers, how they cleared roadblocks, planted vines and built their own homes.
The event has been organised by the Swan Hill Genealogical and Historical Society.
Families of settlers, including Mrs Whateley, were presenters.
