Nelson Avenue in East Perth was today renamed Sailani Avenue in honour of Private Nain Singh Sailani and in recognition of the sacrifices made by Anzacs from the Indian community during World War One.
Private Nain Singh Sailani was one of 12 known Anzacs from the Indian community who enlisted with the Australian Imperial Forces in 1916, and one of two who were killed in the Belgian campaign.
The Minister for Lands Hon John Carey MLA and the Indian Consular General, Amarjeet Singh Takhi, joined City of Perth Lord Mayor, Basil Zempilas, to officially unveil the Sailani Avenue street signs.
The Lord Mayor said the City of Perth was committed to recognising the vital contribution of people and groups that have shaped the vibrant and multicultural community we live in today.
“One way we can do this is through naming places in our City to honour those who have played an important role in our history,” Mr Zempilas said.
“The naming of Sailani Avenue pays homage to the sacrifice made by Private Sailani and shines a light on the contributions of all Western Australia’s Anzacs from the Indian community.”
The Lord Mayor said the naming was a joint effort between all three-tiers of government.
“The City received the naming request through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and following community consultation we worked closely with Landgate to bring it to fruition,” Mr Zempilas said.
“Sailani Avenue will act as a tangible reminder of the role Anzacs from the Indian community played in shaping our state’s history and paving the way for future generations.”
Private Sailani is buried in Belgium, alongside fellow Australian soldiers who were killed in action and is the recipient of three medals including the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the 1914/15 Star.
