THE Gloucester RSL sub-Branch will receive $10,000 in NSW Government funding for conservation work on the Gloucester Memorial Clock Tower.
Minister for Veterans David Harris announced the sub-Branch as one of the successful applicants from Round 2 of the 2024/25 Community War Memorials Fund.
The Gloucester Memorial Clock Tower was constructed in 1931.
A tall clock tower constructed of red-brick, concrete and stone located in the middle of Gloucester Memorial Park, it features a large brass dedication plaque, bearing an inscription for World War One.
Several plaques and honour rolls for the Second World War and other conflicts have been attached to the tower at later dates.
MidCoast Council was also awarded $10,000 for conservation work on the Wingham Memorial Town Hall in the centre of the town that has since been severely impacted by floods.
Officially opened in April 1924, the now century-old memorial was first dedicated to those who served in the First World War, and today also includes plaques honouring those who served in the Second World War, Korea and Vietnam.
The memorial’s foundation stone was laid by Major General Sir Charles Rosenthal KCMG, who served on the frontline at Gallipoli and on the Western Front.
Thirty-one applications were received in this round, which closed on 12 February 2025.
President of RSL NSW Mick Bainbridge said, “RSL NSW welcomes the State Government’s announcement of the latest Community War Memorials Fund grant recipients.
“These grants play a vital role in ensuring that local war memorials across our state are properly maintained and preserved.
“War memorials are more than just stone and bronze — they are sacred focal points where communities come together to honour the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
“By protecting these sites, we preserve the legacy of those who served and ensure future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Applications are currently open for the 2025/2026 Community War Memorials Fund.
For the first time, the grant program is running as a single annual round with increased funding of up to $15,000 available for individual projects.
More information on the program and details on how to apply are available here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund.
Applications for the 2025/2026 Community War Memorials Fund close at 11pm on 25 June 2025.
