Funding announced to conserve NSW war memorials
Fourteen war memorials from Wagga Wagga to Wellingrove, Bogan to Balmain and Gunnedah to Gloucester will receive $134,636 in NSW Government funding for their upkeep and conservation.
Minister for Veterans David Harris has announced the recipient councils, RSL sub-Branches and community groups from Round 2 of the 2024/25 Community War Memorials Fund.
For successful applicants with memorials impacted by the flood crisis, the NSW Government is allowing extra time to complete grant agreements as required.
Midcoast Council was awarded $10,000 for conservation work on the Wingham Memorial Town Hall in the centre of the town that has since been severely impacted by the devastating floods.
Officially opened in April 1924, the now century-old memorial was first dedicated to those who served in the First World War, and today also includes plaques honouring those who served in the Second World War, Korea and Vietnam. The memorial’s foundation stone was laid by Major General
Sir Charles Rosenthal KCMG, who served on the frontline at Gallipoli and on the Western Front.
Bogan Shire Council was awarded $9,988 to assist the local RSL sub-Branch with repair works to the Nyngan and District War Memorial, which was first unveiled in July 1937. The memorial was originally erected to commemorate those from the district who served in the First World War, with
the foundation stone laid by the Prince of Wales in 1920.
Thirty-one applications were received in this round, which closed on 12 February 2025.
Applications are currently open for the 2025/2026 Community War Memorials Fund. For the first time, the grant program is running as a single annual round with increased funding of up to $15,000 available for individual projects.
More information on the program and details on how to apply are available here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund.
Applications for the 2025/2026 Community War Memorials Fund close at 11pm on 25 June 2025.
Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
“I am pleased to announce that over $134,000 has been awarded across NSW to ensure the conservation of memorials throughout our communities.
“Our communities are proud of their military history, and local war memorials are a vital part of our culture, enabling us to reflect on over 100 years of service and sacrifice of our veterans’ and their families.
“This funding will be used to undertake important conservation work so our local war memorials can continue to honour our veterans who have served our community.
“I want to encourage all communities to apply for the next round of funding for any restoration work their memorial may need. “
President of RSL NSW Mick Bainbridge said:
“RSL NSW welcomes the State Government’s announcement of the latest Community War Memorials Fund grant recipients. These grants play a vital role in ensuring that local war memorials across our state are properly maintained and preserved.
“War memorials are more than just stone and bronze — they are sacred focal points where communities come together to honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans. By protecting these sites, we preserve the legacy of those who served and ensure future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we enjoy today.”
President of the Nyngan RSL sub-Branch, Derek Francis said:
“Thanks to the NSW Government for this funding. The Nyngan Cenotaph is an important reminder of the service that local people gave to Australia and is a focal point for our Anzac Day services.
“I often observe individuals standing in silent contemplation at the Cenotaph during the course of the year and this work will help ensure that we can pay due respect to our service personnel.”
Bogan Shire Council, Debb Wood, Director, People and Community Services said:
“Bogan Shire Council is pleased to hear that funding will be available for the restoration of the Cenotaph.
“Over the years, the condition of the Nyngan Cenotaph has deteriorated due to exposure to the elements and this funding will allow us to bring it back to a standard fit for purpose. We have large numbers of local people gathering at our services on Anzac Day with many wreaths being laid at the cenotaph so it’s important that it is in an appropriate condition.”
MEDIA: Luke Secrett | Minister Harris | 0456 468 738