Bendemeer Memorial Gates

About

The Bendemeer Memorial Gates consist of three sets of wrought-iron gates, positioned between four brick pillars. A wrought-iron arch spans the central gate, bearing the words 'In Remembrance'. There are marble honour rolls for the First World War attached to the two central pillars and several metal plaques for other conflicts in which Australians have been involved, which were installed at later dates. Following the First World War, the Bendemeer War Memorial Committee was formed to consider construction of a war memorial for the town. By February 1925, Cockburn Shire Council had received a design from the War Memorial Advisory Board, sent via the Under-Secretary to the Local Government Department. The proposed war memorial gates were to be erected in the public park at Bendemeer. In response, Mr R.D. Dixon, secretary of the Bendemeer Committee, wrote to Council stating that the Board's design for timber gates was rejected. At that stage, the Committee had designed gates with iron railings, iron gates, concrete pillars and marble plaques (The Armidale Express on 24 February). Following a delay of eight months to have their design approved, the iron gates were constructed by the local residents, under the leadership of Mr Hamilton. The lack of timber in the structure meant the gates would not be subject to damage by white ants. They cost 140 pounds and voluntary labour helped reduce expenses. The unveiling took place on Anzac Day, 25 April 1927, at a ceremony led by Mr Arn. J. Osborne, with assistance from Mr W.O. Murray and Mr R.D. Dixon. A detailed report of the unveiling was published in the Uralla Times on 28 April. During his speech, Mr Dixon noted the movement to erect the gates first began at a public meeting on 13 October 1923 and had finally been realised. Wreaths were laid at the memorial and other speeches were given, including one by returned soldier James Ryan. The unveiling was performed by Mr Murray, whose three sons went to the Great War with one having been killed in the conflict. The gates are located in Bendemeer Memorial Park, in a dominant position overlooking the McDonald River, situated east of the Bendemeer village near the Great Northern Road. Various commemorative services are held in the park throughout the year.

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