THE Thirroul community has expressed outrage and shock over the vandalism of the Illawarra’s oldest war memorial.
On Wednesday the model of a wooden rifle was discovered missing from the statue of a soldier in Woodward Memorial Park.
The soldier stands 5m above the ground on a sandstone plinth in memory of those who served and died in World War I.
Austinmer Thirroul RSL President Will Lee has described the theft as “absolutely devastating”.
A Wollongong City Council spokesperson said it will work closely with the Austinmer Thirroul RSL to ensure the memorial is repaired.
“We know this act is not representative of our community’s values,” the spokesperson said.
“We have deep respect for those who have represented and served this country in all wars and conflicts.
“This memorial honours those who gave their lives and those who served during World War I. It’s a heritage site, and the wooden gun was part of a restoration project in 2022.”
Anyone with information about this vandalism is encouraged to contact NSW Police on 1800 333 000 or Wollongong City Council on 02 4227 7111.
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