The money was made possible as of the Community War Memorial Fund and will go towards conservation works for the commemorative plaques and honour boards as well as repairs to the building facade. 

The Memorial Arch was built 80 years after World War I and behind it is an honour board that shows the enlistments from the Gunnedah and district for service in the Great War. 

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said it had special historic significance. 

“By conserving and improving our historic local war memorials we can ensure the legacy of our local servicemen and women lives on,” he said.

“During the Centenary of the Anzac (2014-2018), it is important to ensure that our war memorials continue to stand proud and strong.” 

The Memorial Arch and Memorial Clock tower at the hall were both built to honour those who fought in the first world war. 

The tower was officially opened in 1937 by Sir Charles Rosenthal who inspected a guard of honour comprising members of Gunnedah’s detachment of the 33rd battalion, under Captain Gordon Studdy. 

He also inspected and chatted with returned men and renewed acquaintances with men who associated with him overseas during the Great War.

Applications are now open for the next round of the Community War Memorials Fund. Applicants have until Anzac Day to apply for a grant of up to $10,000 for the conservation, repair or protection of a community war memorial.

More information, including application forms and funding criteria for both grants, can be found at www.veterans.nsw.gov.au