The History of the Avenue of Honour

However, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the significance of these sites. This might sound odd, but any time I get a bit down in the dumps, I remind myself of two things: I live in the best country in the world (my opinion only), and I have never had to fight in a war. Of course, one could argue that the two points are related; Australians that came before us endured unimaginable terror and suffering, enabling many of us to live the life we do today.

The men and women who sacrificed a so much in past wars, particularly WWI, are honoured and recognised in different ways, but I think that one of the most important, are the Avenues of Honour; stands of trees that you find on the outskirts of over 500 Australian country towns. This tradition started in our region, and most of our towns have rows of exotic trees, greeting you on their outskirts.

I feel a deep sense of poignancy as I drive past these memorials. The very fact that every tree is symbolic of a person who fought in war is highly evocative, particularly when you consider the fact that men from the same town were usually grouped, and fought, together. This means that in any heavy battle defeat, many men from that town died together. Just imagine the impact of this on a tiny town.

When driving around the region, I’m struck by how the landscape constantly shifts with the light and seasons. Some days the hills are shrouded in mist and the tall trees feel like sentinels watching over us. In autumn, the leaves of the trees are brilliant red and gold, and as the sun catches them, I’m enthralled, and reminded of our fortunate lives.

I live between Daylesford and Glenlyon so am a little biased, but I do love Daylesford’s Avenue of Honour, which greets you as you come into town from the east. The Sunday market, Cliffy’s and other well-known highlights are right there.

Further east, Glenlyon’s stand of trees creates a tunnel-like effect which enhances the beauty of this lovely town, and the trees, which alternate between oak and elm, also seem to frame the much-loved (and photographed) General Store.

Continuing east, the Avenue at Drummond has fifty elms, eleven of which commemorate fallen soldiers, and Woodend, recently ranked as Victoria’s most liveable regional town, has one of my favourite Avenues. There’s lots to do here too: my kids love the Woodend Children’s Park.

These are just a few.

These avenues are usually preserved, and the plaques and obelisks maintained, by small community groups (with help from respective Councils). The dedication of these groups is important.

So, next time you drive into a town around here, tip your head to these quintessentially Australian symbols of gratitude, respect and, of course honour.

Sometimes we need reminding just how lucky we are.

For information about these and other Avenue, visit avenuesofhonour.org or monumentaustralia.org.au.

Hero image: Judah Grubb