A community tribute of respect and remembrance to commemorate the centenary of ANZAC, which turned into one of the largest community art installations in Australia's history, had its worldwide preview this morning at Fed Square.

The field of poppies at Fed Square this morning

Left: Ted Baillieu, former Premier and Chairman of the Victorian ANZAC Centenary Committee; 
Lynn Berry, co-author of the 500 Poppies project; Ron Gauci, CEO of Fed Square
and Phillip Johnson, landscape designer at the briefing at Fed Square.

Lynn Berry said, "The original project had a target of just 5000 Poppies. The project has captured the imagination and commitment of Australians across the nation and internationally, resulting in over a quarter of a million hand crafted poppies created by thousands of volunteers over the last two years.

"Many libraries, CWA groups, RSL auxiliaries, Legacy groups, retirement villages, schools, special interest groups and community groups joined the 5000 Poppies project running workshops and collecting poppies in many towns around the nation."

Left: Margaret Knight, co-author 5000 Poppies project; Adrian Egglestone, sculptor;
Lynn Berry, co-author 5000 Poppies project and Phillip Johnson, landscape designer at the briefing at Fed Square.

Ms Berry said the installation at Fed Square, designed by Phillip Johnson, is a stunning tribute of respect and remembrance to our service men and women for the service and sacrifice in all wars, conflict and peace keeping operations.

"Today is a special and emotional event for volunteers and community attending as it will be the first time they will be able to see the complete installation."

The Sculpture 'Gratitude' by Adrian Egglestone 

Students from Shelford Girls Grammar School helped to put the finishing touches to the display.

Media Enquiries:
Ron Smith, Corporate Media Communications, Fed Square - Mob: 0417 329 201