ORGANISATIONS

The City of Ballarat and the surrounding districts played a leading role in the social, economic and political arena in Victoria in the early years of the twentieth century.

The political contributions came from both the conservative and labour sides of the political spectrum. In addition to State politics, local government also played a vital role in formation of a district's response to the war.

This may have included the organisation of enlistment processes, the establishment of avenues for voluntary work along with the collection of the money donated to numerous welfare funds that supported both the enlisted people in local camps, and those elsewhere in Australia or overseas.

There is also evidence of funds set up to support the families of enlisted people. Sporting organisations also lent their support to these funds. Lawn bowling is one sport mentioned that showed widespread support in the establishment of the Avenue of Honour.