Minister for Veterans David Harris announced $128,358 in NSW Government funding for care and upkeep of 15 war memorials across the state.
The $2,000 to $15,000 grants have been awarded to local councils, RSL sub-Branches and community groups throughout metropolitan, regional and rural NSW from Round 1 of the 2024/25 Community War Memorials Fund.
The recipients range from all four corners of the state, from Broken Hill to Bland, Port Stephens to Sussex Inlet, Tamworth to Thirroul.
Minister Harris was in Broken Hill today to announce $10,000 has been awarded to Broken Hill City Council for conservation work on the town’s Great War Memorial.
Dubbed ‘the Bomber’, the memorial comprises an imposing bronze sculpture of an Australian First World War soldier throwing a Mills bomb.
The memorial was unveiled by Lt. General Sir John Monash on 11 October 1925 where it has since stood as an iconic feature of Broken Hill and remains the largest free-standing war memorial action sculpture in Australia.
Twenty-six applications were received in this round, which closed on 24 July. Round 2 of the grant program will open on Remembrance Day, 11 November 2024.
Changes will be made to the Community War Memorials Fund schedule in 2025, and more details will be released closer to that time.
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Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
“Our communities are proud of their military history, and it is wonderful to announce this funding for local war memorials across the state.
“Local war memorials like the Great War Memorial here in Broken Hill, are a vital part of our culture. Ensuring they are supported with appropriate conservation and upkeep will help us to continue to reflect on over 100 years of service and sacrifice by our veterans.
“I encourage all communities to review the status of their local war memorials and to apply for funding for any restoration work that is needed.”
Broken Hill City Mayor Tom Kennedy said:
“I’d like to thank the NSW Government for this funding, which will contribute to much-needed conservation work on our War Memorial statue in Argent Street.
“The Bomber statue is an iconic Broken Hill landmark and a great tribute to all the brave locals who have lost their lives fighting for Australia over the years.
“I commend the NSW Government for helping to ensure their sacrifice is not forgotten.”
