A new memorial commemorating the service and sacrifice of local men and women who served in World War I has been unveiled at Jilliby Cemetery.
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Federal Member for Dobell, Emma McBride, shared the honours with Bill Dafter, whose parents are buried in the cemetery.
"The Wyong RSL Sub-Branch was successful in securing funds through the Anzac Centenary Grants Program," Ms McBride - who assisted with the funding application - said.
Central Coast Council also contributed to the memorial's construction.
"This memorial specifically honours the service and sacrifice of local men and women who answered the call to arms with the outbreak of World War I," Ms McBride said.
"The Jilliby Valley was one of 1701 recruitment centres in NSW and the staging point on the Coast for the men and women embarking on the journey to help defend the British Empire."
Ms McBride said regional areas such as the Central Coast made significant contributions to the war effort.
"As a consequence, many did not make it home," she said.
The unveiling was attended by Joanne Cullen and her father, Bill Dafter. Mr Dafter's father, Norman, was a World War I veteran.
"Norman Dafter was one of the fortunate local young men who did return home from the War," Ms McBride said.
The 21-year-old was deployed to Egypt and then to France where he was shot and developed trench foot, ending up in a repatriation hospital in England.
It was there he met his future wife, Bill's mother, Margaret, from Gloucestershire.
After the war Norman and Margaret settled in Australia, ending up in the Entrance, and had 10 children.
"Norman is one of the many returnees from World War 1 that this new monument is intended to honour," Ms McBride said.
"His story demonstrates the importance of this cemetery and of this new memorial."
Central Coast mayor Jane Smith said the monument was significant in recognising and remembering an important part of history.
"This monument signifies an important part of not only our local but Australian history," Cr Smith said.
"Central Coast Council is proud to be involved in honouring the service of the many local men and women during World War I.
