Funding available to restore war memorials

War memorials across NSW can now undertake further conservation work, with applications opening for the NSW Government’s Community War Memorials Fund.

Minister for Veterans Geoff Lee said applicants can apply for funding to support the repair, protection and conservation of war memorials across the state.

“Thousands of people pay their respects each year at their local war memorial and it’s important we protect these significant monuments,” Mr Lee said.

“Grants of up to $10,000 are available and can cover projects like conservation assessments, honour roll repair, cleaning, and repairs to war memorial halls.”

Organisations including memorial trusts, veteran groups and local councils can apply.

“We need to maintain our NSW memorials for future generations, whether it’s trees lining a reflection drive or an honour roll in the main street,” Mr Lee said.

“Big, small, living or manmade – all war memorials are an important way our communities can honour the service of former defence personnel and their families.”

Previous recipients include Hornsby Shire Council, which was awarded $10,000 for restorative work on the Beecroft War Memorial. Established in 1928, it lists the names of Beecroft servicemen, including a local solider who has no known grave.

St George’s Anglican Church in Parkes also received funding of $2,700 to repair and clean a memorial window displaying various representations of Australian Defence personnel.

Originally gifted by the Parkes Sub-branch of the Returned Sailors, Soldiers and Airman’s Imperial League of Australia, the Window is dedicated to all from the Parkes district who gave their lives during the First World War, the Second World War and the Korean War.

Community War Memorials Fund applications close on 26 July 2021. For more information or to apply, visit: www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund

MEDIA: Sherilee Hemers | 0437 884 068

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