On Wednesday the 19th of December at 3.00pm there was a presentation by the Coffs Ex-Services Club’s Board of Directors of the painting of the Ulong Ex-Services Club fire to the President of Ulong Ex-Services Club Mr David Seccombe. The magnificent artwork was painted by local artist Andrew Petrou and showcased devastation and sense of loss that the Ulong community experienced due to the fire.

The original Ex-Services Club was built in the mid 1950’s completely from voluntary labour and donations from the community. The Ulong Ex-Services Club was more than just a building. It was a focal point of this small community which had endured the closure of the local sawmill, a downturn in the timber industry and a decrease in population as people left to find work.

Whilst the spirit of the club has endured, the loss of war memorabilia and medals, photos honouring local veterans and Ex-Servicemen can never be replaced. This painting is a classic example of the “Phoenix” like endurance of the Ulong Ex-Services Club to rise from the ashes and re-build this very important community club

Pictured is (l to r) Christine Artist Ulong R.S.L. Director, David Chrisensen CEX Director, Tracey Timms Acting Secretary, Roy Cross CEX Director, David Seccombe Ulong RSL President, David Doyle CEX President and Melva McKenzie CEX Director.