In 1924/25 an avenue of 26 Monterey Cypress trees was planted along The Esplanade in Lakes Entrance, in memory of the 26 men from this district who gave their lives in World War 1.
Over the years the significance of the trees was almost forgotten and some had died and been removed. When all the remaining trees were threatened with complete removal in 1997, the Society campaigned for the preservation of the remainder.

We were only partly successful, as just five of the trees remain and the butts of a further five have been sculpted by John Brady into figures depicting aspects of World War 1.

A plaque honouring the 26 soldiers has been erected by the Society and although 16 of the original trees have gone, the significance of the trees has been preserved. These wonderful sculptures are now a major tourist attraction in Lakes Entrance.