MACLEAY ISLAND CRAFT LADIES CONTRIBUTE TO ANZAC 'POPPY' EFFORT

The Macleay Island Craft Group, inspired by the Macleay Island RSL Sub Branch, are contributing to a nation-wide 'poppy drive' to mark the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings next year.As part of the 2015 Anzac Commemoration marking the 100th anniversary of the landing, the 5000 poppies project will be 'planting' a field of more than 25,000 poppies in Federation Square in Melbourne.[The initial 5000 target was upgraded to 25,000 following outstanding response from around Australia. The Melbourne display will be a stunning visual tribute to Australian servicemen and women for more than a century of service in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.The Macleay Island effort has been inspired by Jan Hearps, president of the Macleay Island Craft Group and wife of Macleay RSL Sub Branch president, Russ Hearps.The craft group set a target for 200 poppies to the cause.They are produced by either knitting or crocheting.The enthusiastic bunch have already reached their initial goal, but have now decided to set a new target of 500 to come from Macleay Island!Jan Hearps is looking for more help with this project and if you would like to get involved, you may phone her on 34094368, or visit the Macleay Island Craft Group on Monday mornings at the Macleay Island Community Centre from 9am.It is well worth a visit just to see some of the outstanding craft and craft people on our islands!