The Australian Government has announced a $150,000 grant towards Townsville City Council’s VP80 – Victory in the Pacific Commemorations.
On 15 August 2025, Australia will mark 80 years since Victory in the Pacific Day – the day on which the Second World War ended.
“Almost a million Australians – out of a population of just 7 million at the time – were enlisted to serve in the Second World War, both on the home front, and those deployed to fight overseas,” said Minister for Veterans and Defence Personnel, Matt Keogh.
“Townsville played a significant role in the defence of the home front, home to a strategic Allied airbase and port, with the city coming under fire three times throughout WWII.
“This grant will support the execution of numerous events to both commemorate and celebrate the contributions made to the war effort by those based in Townsville.
“Grants like this are not just about preserving history – they’re about educating local communities on their history of service, so the stories of local heroes live on for generations.
“As time marches on, it’s more important than ever that we safeguard the legacy of Australia’s veterans and families, who answered the call to serve when our nation needed them,” Minister Keogh said.
Townsville City Council has a range of activities planned to mark the 80th anniversary of VP Day: https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/about-townsville/history-and-heritage/vp80.
