$14,210 SECURED TO PRESERVE SOUTH GRAFTON’S WAR MEMORIAL GATES

Clarence Valley Council has been successful in securing $14,210 through the NSW Government’s Community War Memorials Fund to support the relocation and restoration of South Grafton’s historic war memorial gates, NSW Nationals State Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson has announced.

The wrought iron gates — originally donated by the South Grafton RSL Sub-Branch and dedicated by Rev C E Nahle — have been a significant feature of the former South Grafton Indoor Pool and Boyd Nattress Complex. Following Council’s decision to close the facility, the gates will now be relocated to Lane Boulevard, home to the cenotaph and South Grafton’s memorial services.

Mr Williamson said the funding ensures a meaningful piece of local military heritage is properly preserved.

“These gates are an important symbol of South Grafton’s wartime history and community spirit. I’m pleased the NSW Government is supporting Council and the local RSL in honouring and protecting this memorial for future generations.”

Clarence Valley Council Mayor Ray Smith welcomed the partnership between all parties involved.

“It’s been a real partnership between Council, the NSW Government and the local RSL,” Cr Smith said.

“It’s really important that we maintain our history and heritage, and the refurbishment of these gates is a critical part of that.”

President of the Grafton RSL Sub-Branch, Leith Basset said the relocation will return the gates to a place of prominence.

“The war memorial gates were donated by the South Grafton RSL Sub-Branch, and we are proud to see them restored and relocated to Lane Boulevard,” Mr Basset said.

“They will be sandblasted and powder coated before being erected. It’s a really important project, and we thank the NSW Department of Veterans Affairs for their support.”

The project will also include the installation of an information sign at Lane Boulevard detailing the history of the gates, developed in consultation with the RSL.

Mr Williamson said the Community War Memorials Fund continues to play a vital role in preserving local memorials across NSW.

“This program ensures communities like ours can conserve and respect the memorials that honour those who served. I congratulate Council and the RSL for their commitment to this important work.”

The Community War Memorials Fund provides grants of up to $15,000 for conservation, repair and protection of memorials across NSW, following recent program changes designed to support more significant works.

PHOTO: Richie is pictured with Mayor of Clarence Valley Council, Cr Ray Smith and President of Grafton RSL Sub-Branch, Leith Basset.