In late 1945, when small towns and settlements around Australia were erecting monuments in honour of those who had fought for their country, Buderim had a population of about 600 and the major industry was farming. The people of Buderim decided that they did not want a cold, stone statue, a park or even an avenue of trees to commemorate those who gave their lives. Instead, with rare vision, the community resolved to keep Buderim as a place worth fighting for . . . a place that would maintain the spirit of community that had characterised Buderim during the war years. The Buderim War Memorial Community Association was established to be a living memorial.