MYRTLEFORD locals are hoping to erect a bust in memory of popular town doctor, community member and serviceman Peter Broughton, and are seeking interested community members for a working committee to start the project.

So far the group consists of locals David Hogg, Barb Nannipieri, and Anita Toner, but they need more if they are to get the project underway, according to Mr Hogg.

“I'd like to get just some interested people in Myrtleford to help get this over the line,” he said.

Two town locations have been mooted with council, Mr Hogg said, while initial enquiries suggest a price of $16,000 for the bust, but discussions have been preliminary.

The project idea also received strong interest when discussed on a Facebook post on a local community page, Mr Hogg said.

“We just need to start on it,” he said.

“We have had people say this is a good idea, but now we need to go ahead, organise some funding, get the bust made.

“I think it's going to be something pretty easy to get done, but I've just got to get the ball rolling.”

According to notes provided by his daughter Barb Nannipieri, Dr Broughton was born in 1920, served in the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) during World War II and then as an air gunner.

He moved to Myrtleford in the 1960s where he began working at the Standish Street Surgery.

Several records note his selflessness and willingness to work long hours, including making house calls or delivering babies.

“He was a great doc; he patched me up so many times,” Mr Hogg said.

“Stitched my hand up, fixed my broken collarbone.”

Reportedly, many babies born in town were named after him.

According to Ms Nannipieri’s notes, Dr Broughton was involved in a raft of community initiatives.

He joined the Rotary Club of Myrtleford in 1969, served as Rotary president twice and was awarded the Paul Harris fellowship in 1988 in recognition of his contribution to the establishment of Hawthorn Lodge and the extension of Barwidgee Lodge.

He was a life governor of the Myrtleford War Memorial District Hospital and a member of the hospital board.

He also served with Legacy and helped initiate Meals on Wheels in Myrtleford.

To get involved contact David Hogg on 0427 823 951, or by email at stumphogg666@gmail.com.