A PROPOSED memorial on Anzac Parade to honour the service and sacrifice of Australians who fought in the Boer War is a step closer to reality this week, after receiving $200,000 from the Gillard government.

Chairman of the NSW committee of the National Boer War Memorial Association Tony Larnach-Jones says he was “getting worried” after an initial lack of donations, but is confident the memorial can now proceed with the government’s contribution.

The memorial, along with an Australian Peacekeeping Memorial, will sit on either side of Anzac Parade.

The Boer War ran from 1899 to 1902, and saw servicemen from every colony and after 1901 from every state, fight alongside each other for the first time in a war, with contingents being sent to South Africa before and after federation.

More than 16,000 Australians volunteered to fight for Britain in the war, with some 250 being killed in action and more than 260 dying of illness. Six Victoria Crosses were awarded to brave Australians for their efforts.

Each memorial will cost $3 million to $4 million to build and detailed design on the sculptures will begin next year.

For more information on the Memorial or how to donate visit the National Boer War Memorial Association website at www.bwm.org.au

For more information on Australia’s contribution to the Boer War visit the Australian War Memorial websitehttp://www.awm.gov.au/atwar/boer/