The Purple Cross Horse Trough recognises the contribution of horses to Australian military service. The trough was an initiative of the Purple Cross Society. Formed during the First World War, this group of concerned women raised funds for extra veterinary equipment. General Sir John Monash unveiled the trough in 1926. The trough was first located on St Kilda Rd to the west of the Shrine. In 1986 it was relocated to where you see it now. The trough is carved from a single piece of stone and includes a bronze lamp on top. The poem inscribed on the plaque is a tribute to the efforts of all war horses.
On Anzac Day and Remembrance Day it is common to see flowers and wreaths around the trough. It remains a focal point for the commemoration of the service of our war horses.
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