The long-time Muswellbrook resident played an instrumental role in the Dedication of the Battle of Beersheba Memorial, which was unveiled in Brook Street, to mark the 100th anniversary of the charge of the 4th Australian Light Horse Brigade.

A big crowd witnessed The Honourable John Jobling OAM MStJ (First Mayor of Muswellbrook 1974-1986), Ian Seymour OAM (Third Mayor of Muswellbrook 1989-1999), Brig. (Ret.) John Colvin AM, RFD, ED (Fourth Mayor of Muswellbrook) and current mayor Councillor Martin Rush unveil the plaque for the town’s latest statue, Over the Top.

Hunter MP Joel Fitzgibbon, Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen, the Honourable George Souris AM, Upper Hunter mayor Wayne Bedggood, Muswellbrook Shire general manager Steve McDonald, Major Trevor Boyd of the 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers, Muswellbrook RSL Sub-Branch president Craig Ross, local Australian Red Cross member Val Angel and John Hall, representing the minister assisting the Prime Minister for the Centenary of ANZAC Dan Tehan, also joined the official proceedings.

But, it was Mr Flood who had a smile from ear to ear.

“What can you say?” he admitted.

“It’s everything I hoped for.

“To see this many residents here is fantastic – even this morning’s service at Rouchel attracted about 80.

“A lot of people ensured this project came to fruition.

“So, it’s a credit to them.

“The statue honours the legend of the mighty Walers and the brave men who rode them.

“The artist, Brett ‘Mon’ Garling, did a fantastic job.”