THE Nambucca Heads Cenotaph is set to undergo much-needed repairs and security upgrades following the successful award of funding through the Australian Government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program.
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan recently joined Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch President Denis Lane and Trustee John Kent OAM to celebrate the successful funding application.
The Nambucca Heads RSL Sub-Branch has been awarded $8,000 to repair damage caused by repeated acts of vandalism and general wear and tear, while also improving lighting and fencing around the cenotaph to help protect it into the future.
The funding will also assist with powering a public address system for use during commemorative services.
Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said war memorials play an important role in preserving the memory of those who have served Australia.
“War memorials and cenotaphs are more than just bricks and mortar, they are the physical memory of our local heroes and a place to reflect and appreciate how far we have come as a nation as a result of their sacrifices,” Mr Conaghan said.
“Unfortunately, we have seen in recent years a disgusting disregard for our veterans and their families through the rise of vandalism of monuments like the Nambucca Heads Cenotaph.
“Over the past couple of years, this proud symbol of veteran sacrifice and service has been defaced multiple times.
“The level of disrespect and contempt that shows for those who have served our country cannot be underestimated. To now see that the much-needed and much-deserved funding has been awarded that will cover the necessary work for repairs and lighting upgrades is a fantastic result, and a great step towards its preservation for future generations.”
President of the Nambucca Heads RSL Sub-Branch Denis Lane welcomed the funding and thanked Mr Conaghan for his ongoing support in helping secure the grant.
“Seeing our beloved monument continually attacked has been a hard pill for our local veteran community to swallow,” Mr Lane said.
“Veterans and their families deserve to be remembered, respected and cared for. And restoring the cenotaph site to its former glory in tribute to their sacrifices is a great place to start! This funding will also go towards powering a PA system to be used for commemoration days.”
Speaking with News Of The Area, Mr Lane said the project was another important step in ensuring the cenotaph continues to serve as a fitting place of remembrance for generations to come.
“Once these upgrades and repairs have been completed we will be looking toward additional measures to ensure the Cenotaph remains in a condition worthy of being the centrepiece of commemoration in our town,” he said.
The Nambucca Heads Cenotaph has long stood as the focal point for local commemorative services, providing a place where veterans, their families and the wider community gather to honour the service and sacrifice of Australian men and women who have served their nation.
By Mick BIRTLES
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