The next round of the Community War Memorials Fund for 2023-2024 opens on Anzac Day with $125,000 in funding available for the protection and repair of war memorials.
Minister for Veterans David Harris today announced the opening of the program administered through the NSW Office for Veterans Affairs which supports the conservation, repair and protection of local memorials throughout NSW.
"Our war memorials are the cornerstones of commemoration on Anzac Day and other important days that honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans. I am pleased to announce that $125,000 is available in round 1 of the program to ensure the upkeep of memorials throughout our communities." Minister Harris said.
Funding is available to assist with a range of conservation projects including condition assessments, specialist cleaning and repairs, which are all important aspects of how we manage the places of commemoration that help us acknowledge our military history.
"Community groups can apply for up to $10,000, and it is important that we protect our local war memorials to ensure future generations continue to remember the efforts of our diggers and the sacrifices made during periods of war and conflict as well as peacekeeping missions." Minister Harris added.
Recipients of funding from previous rounds of the program include Richmond Valley Council who were awarded $10,000 for conservation work to two First World War honour rolls that were damaged when the Woodburn Memorial Hall was flooded in 2022.
Hornsby RSL sub-Branch was also awarded $10,000 in funding to assist with conservation work to the historic Hornsby War Memorial.
President of the sub-Branch, George Main, said the funding received will significantly help the restoration work of the memorial which includes cleaning and repointing of stonework and cleaning and regilding of panels.
"I would like to thank the NSW Government for the $10,000 funding. The restoration work is currently underway and will be completed ahead of Anzac Day allowing us to celebrate the 100th anniversary and a rededication ceremony of the Hornsby War Memorial." Mr Main said.
To be eligible for funding, the memorial must be listed on the NSW War Memorials Register. More information on the program and details for how to apply are available here.
Round 1 of the Community War Memorials Fund closes at 5:00pm on 25 July 2023.
