Within just a few weeks, Windsor is due to have a permanent cenotaph to mark Anzac Day and other significant commemorations. 

“This is something that Windsor RSL Sub-Branch has worked towards for years, and it is a testament to their determination that a permanent structure is about to be built,” Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said at a community gathering to mark the imminent construction. 

The Sub-Branch has received $53,669 towards the construction, thanks to the Albanese Government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program, and Hawkesbury City Council has approved the development at McQuade Park, which is state-owned land that Council manages. 

President of Windsor RSL Sub-Branch, Dave Hadfield says it’s going to be an incredibly significant structure.  

“After nearly a decade of red tape, temporary builds, temporary dismantles, it is incredibly significant to the Hawkesbury to have a permanent memorial here for all our veterans,” Mr Hadfield says. 

“The fact that the cenotaph will be permanent, inscribed with the important words: Lest We Forget, and people will see it as they drive past or walk through park, will be a powerful reminder of our ANZAC legacy.” 

Ms Templeman congratulated the Sub-branch on its determination over many years to put up temporary structures so that the thousands of people who gather at the Windsor Anzac Day dawn service could appropriately mark that event.  

"The Hawkesbury has a proud history of service and sacrifice. The Anzac Day service at McQuade Park gives thousands of locals the opportunity to pay their respects and I’m glad that now a permanent cenotaph will be in this spot. 

“It was terrific to ‘turn the sod’ on this new project because local monuments like this one, are essential to make sure that the stories of service and the sacrifices made by local men and women are remembered for generations.  

“I’m proud that the Government is committed to recognising and commemorating all veterans and their families, both past and present.” 

The federal funding is part of the more than $1.68 million recently announced for projects and initiatives that pay tribute to those who have served in our nation’s uniform, to be shared among 91 community organisations nationwide.