By Alesha Capone
A Wyndham living history group is striving to celebrate Victoria’s artillery and military heritage.
The Werribee Half Battery depicts the Victorian Horse Artillery raised by Sir William Clarke and Andrew Chirnside in conjunction with the Victorian government, in 1889 and commanded by Andrew’s son, Captain Percy Chirnside.
The original Werribee Half Battery was based in Werribee Park and Soldiers Reserve in Werribee.
Captain Sterling said members of the modern Werribee Half Battery trained around once a month and used the same Martini-Henry carbine rifle that the battery members carried.
Captain Sterling said the battery’s members provided support at commemorative events such as Anzac Day and private celebrations like weddings and funerals.
During this year’s Australia Day event at Kelly Park, they supported the Werribee & District Collectible Vehicle Club.
“We love history, we love military history, we love working with youth development and helping young people along,” Captain Sterling said.
“We enjoy serving and helping the community, especially with traditional things.”
Captain Sterling’s wife, Maryanne – who holds the position of Lieutenant in the battery, and is also involved with the Australian Army Cadets – said men and women aged 18 and over were welcome to join the Werribee Half Battery group.
“It’s there to give youth an experience they may not get, the chance to do something they otherwise wouldn’t in life,” Lieutenant Sterling said.
There is also a group called Friends of the Battery, which supports the half battery in areas such as engineering and logistics.
Members of the Werribee Half Battery are covered by insurance and the blue ceremonial uniform is provided on loan.
See www.facebook.com/WerribeeHB or email werribeehalfbattery@gmail.com for details.
