Relocating a World War II 25-pounder gun that has been pride of place for decades as a public monument is no mean feat, but the far western community at Bourke recently received a little help to make the move easier.

Council was recently granted $10,000 to relocate the antique piece of artillery to Bourke Central Park, adjacent to the upgraded and renewed cenotaph on Oxley Street.

The gun is believed to be the heavy piece that for years had been a notable feature outside of the local RSL – also known as the Diggers Memorial Club and the Old Oxley Hall – that was destroyed by a fire on September 1, 2021.

The historic building was a central part of the community, housing war memorabilia and acting as a community hub, with the gun later put in storage after the blaze.

“The Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program offers funding for projects that commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australia’s military personnel in wars, conflict and peace operations,” Federal Member for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey said.

“It’s great to see some of this support going to Bourke Shire Council for this project, and I congratulate them on their successful application,” he added.

“It is especially fitting to celebrate this project during Legacy Week, a very important initiative that supports the families of veterans.”

The grant announcement was a very welcome move for redevelopment of the cenotaph site, Bourke mayor Lachlan Ford revealed.

“It’s great news for the community of Bourke,” Cr Ford said.

“I congratulate former councillor Victor Bartley for the hard work he has put in to get the cenotaph area to this point. It’s an inviting and respectful area in our community,” he concluded.