The Hillgrove War Memorial is among 27 sites across New South Wales to receive funding through the NSW Government’s Community War Memorials Fund, which supports the conservation of memorials that honour the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans.
As Hillgrove springs back to life with the reopening of the mine, the small and simple war memorial at the tiny community east of Armidale will be getting a spruce-up. The Hillgrove Progress Association will receive $7,218.50 to assist with restoration and care of the memorial, ensuring it continues to serve as a focal point of remembrance for the local community.
Minister for Veterans David Harris announced nearly $250,000 in grants to councils, RSL sub-branches, and community organisations across 25 local government areas, from Monaro to Lismore, saying the investment would help preserve local heritage.
“I am proud that the Minns Labor Government is providing nearly $250,000 to assist with the conservation of 27 war memorials across NSW,” Mr Harris said.
“This crucial funding will be used to undertake important conservation work to strengthen our war memorials, ensuring they can continue to honour the service and sacrifice of all veterans who have served our communities.”
The Community War Memorials Fund provides grants of up to $10,000 for the repair, restoration and conservation of local memorials, honour rolls and cenotaphs. Applications for the 2026–2027 round will open from April to June 2026, with local councils, RSL sub-branches, and community groups eligible to apply.
While Hillgrove was the only war memorial in the region to receive funding in this round, others in the New England are urged to consider submitting applications for their own heritage sites.
“Local communities across the state are rightly proud of their military history and the vital threads their war memorials weave into our cultural fabric,” Mr Harris said.
“I want to encourage local communities to consider applying for the next round of the Community War Memorials Fund for any restoration work their memorials may need.”
Further details, including eligibility criteria and application forms, are available via the NSW Office for Veterans Affairs at www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/heritage/community-war-memorials-fund.
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