Stuart Ayres MP, Member for Penrith and Minister for Veterans Affairs David Elliott, today encouraged veteran groups, community organisations and councils to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to protect war memorials.
The NSW Community War Memorials Fund was established to help repair, conserve and restore war memorials across the state.
Grants are offered twice a year and applications for round one close on Remembrance Day – November 11, 2015. All submissions are assessed by the State War Memorials Committee.
“It is important that Australia’s servicemen and women are remembered in their local communities,” Mr Elliott said
“Maintaining war memorials helps to ensure the sacrifices of Australia’s veterans have not, and will not, be forgotten.”
Stuart Ayres encouraged Penrith groups and organisations to consider making an application for their local memorial.
“Funding has been provided for the conservation of a wide range of war memorials, from statues and honour rolls, to memorial gates and memorial halls,” Stuart Ayres said.
“During the Centenary of the Anzac (2014- 2018), it is important to ensure that our war memorials continue to stand proud and strong.”
Previously funded projects have included:
· Repair of the Taree War Memorial Clock
· Conservation of the Coramba Community Hall World War One Honour Roll
· Regilding of the lettering on the John Edmondson VC Memorial Clock in Liverpool
· Enhancement of security of the Parkes War Memorial.
Applications for the protection and conservation of memorials honouring NSW’s military heritage will be assessed by a committee comprised of representatives from the Government Architect’s Office, Office of Environment and Heritage, Veterans’ Affairs and the NSW RSL.
For more information, including application forms, please visit: veterans.nsw.gov.au/community-war-memorials-fund
