First knitted poppies planted in commemoration of Armistice Day

Premier Mark McGowan and Minister for Defence Issues Paul Papalia joined representatives from the Returned Services League of WA (RSLWA) to plant the first knitted poppies to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of Armistice Day.

The ‘Poppy Project’ will see 62,000 poppies planted at Kings Park to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of Armistice Day.

Each poppy represents a fallen member of the Australian armed forces who died during World War 1.

“This poppy project is a poignant expression of our shared heritage and provides us all with a symbolic reminder of those who lost their lives during World War One in order to protect our freedoms and the way of life that we enjoy today,” Veterans Issues Minister Peter Tinley said.

The 62,000 poppies have been handmade by volunteers, known as ‘Poppy Ladies’, who have been working on this project for over a year.

The poppies will be installed in Kings Park at the Flame of Remembrance and the State War Memorial.

Senior Australian Defence Force officers, school students and businesses will all take part in planting the knitted poppies. Of the planting, Premier Mark McGowan stated, “Taking part in the planting of 62,000 knitted poppies is truly a once in a life-time opportunity- I was honoured to be involved in this unique event.”

As part of a wider program of events to commemorate the Centenary of Anzac, the Premier interviewed veterans, school students and community members throughout the year as an opportunity to hear first-hand from representatives in the community about why the anniversary is so important and personal to them.

Media contact: Lannie Le-Patterson 6552 5200 or 0419 698 504