WAR memorials at Stuarts Point, Bowraville and Nambucca Heads have been targeted by thieves and vandals over the past two weeks, sparking outrage and disbelief across the Nambucca Valley’s veteran community.
The incidents, which come just days before Remembrance Day on 11 November, are the latest in a series of acts of vandalism targeting memorials dedicated to those who served and sacrificed for Australia.
Local RSL sub-Branches and members of the broader veteran community are urging anyone with information about the incidents to contact police.
At Stuarts Point, commemorative plaques were ripped from the war memorial wall, with their loss particularly distressing given the community support that made their installation possible.
Stuarts Point RSL sub-Branch representative Wayne Mason expressed his disappointment at the theft.
“These plaques were the final addition to our memorial upgrades and their purchase was only made possible by the generous donations of our community members,” Mr Mason said.
“It is particularly shocking leading into our Remembrance Day commemoration in a few days time. The plaques commemorated those who had served in each of the Australian services in all conflicts in which our country has been involved.”
Mr Mason confirmed that a police report had been lodged and appealed for public assistance.
“I still find it hard to accept that anyone could disrespect our veterans to this extent. Very sad,” he said.
At Bowraville, RSL sub-Branch President Alan Mitchel condemned the vandalism.
“This is an absolutely low act and totally un-Australian,” Mr Mitchel said.
Blew Manning, from Bowraville’s Frank Partridge VC Military Museum, was equally appalled.
“What sort of low-life commits an act like this?” Mr Manning asked News Of The Area.
He encouraged residents to reflect on the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women, particularly as Remembrance Day approaches.
“As we approach Remembrance Day it would be a good idea for locals to pay a visit to the museum with their families to gain a sense of what was sacrificed so that we may live in the great country we have now,” he added.
At Nambucca Heads, service plaques have been removed from the War Memorial cenotaph, adding to a history of vandalism that has already placed a financial burden on the local RSL sub-Branch.
Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch Secretary Brad D’Elboux said the damage extended beyond the physical loss of the plaques.
“Aside from the issue of desecration of War Memorials, to replace those missing service plaques takes valuable time, effort and money out of the veteran community,” Mr D’Elboux told NOTA.
“Money which would be better served in funding wellbeing for veterans in the Nambucca Valley area especially.
“We hope that the perpetrators are caught, so that justice may be served.”
The latest incident comes despite recent efforts to improve security and restore the Nambucca Heads memorial.
In July, Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan visited the Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch to inspect improvements and discuss repairs following earlier vandalism.
The sub-Branch was awarded an $8,000 Federal Government grant to repair damage caused by repeated vandalism and general wear and tear.
The funding also supports improvements to lighting and fencing around the cenotaph to provide greater protection, along with power for a public address system during commemorative services.
Mr Conaghan has previously highlighted the important role war memorials play in preserving the memory of Australians who have served their country.
The latest incidents have renewed concerns about the ongoing damage to memorials that hold significant historical and emotional importance for veterans, their families and the wider community.
With Remembrance Day approaching, local veterans are calling on the community to remain vigilant and assist police with any information that may help identify those responsible.
Remembrance Day services will be held across the Nambucca Valley on Wednesday 11 November, conducted by the Nambucca Heads, Macksville, Bowraville and Stuarts Point RSL sub-Branches, along with the Taylors Arms Vietnam Veterans and Peace Keepers Association.
The Nambucca Heads service will commence at 10.45am at the War Memorial cenotaph.
Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity around the memorials or has information about the thefts and vandalism is urged to contact police.
By Mick BIRTLES
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