Toukley RSL sub-Branch Cenotaph

About

The Toukley RSL sub-Branch Cenotaph is a granite-block wall, positioned on a two-step platform, which is made from the same material. Standing on the front left and right corners of the lower platform are two bronze statues of servicemen in uniform. Several plaques are attached to the cenotaph and a metal sculpture representing an eternal flame sits on the top face. Flanking the memorial are four flagpoles. The two nearest to the memorial each have a plinth at their base, bearing a plaque.  Two granite walkways lead to the front and back of the memorial, and the paving continues around the structure to give full access. The front walkway begins on Main Road, Toukley, near the corner of Holmes Avenue. This walkway is a ramp, giving mobility access to the site. The memorial is bordered by a large lawn and several well-kept garden beds. Restoration and upgrade The Toukley RSL sub-Branch undertook the restoration and upgrading of the cenotaph from 2017–2019. The original memorial was a sandstone wall with plaques, as shown in image 11 above. The years had taken their toll on the wall, and the restoration to maintain our respect to those who served our country was mandatory. Works commenced with the addition of a granite podium and two new flagpoles.  The concrete coping, housing the interred ashes of our departed comrades, was replaced with granite and all plaques were renewed and replaced. The sandstone cenotaph was completely restored with granite and the eternal flame sculpture was also added.  The two statues were installed to commemorate 100 years of service by Australian servicemen and servicewomen in the First World War. They stand as guardians to pay a warm tribute to those who rest here, after giving service to their country.  Dedication The original sandstone cenotaph was dedicated on 17 April 1971 by Mr Lawrie Flynn, State Councillor of the Returned Services League of Australia. The upgraded cenotaph was rededicated on Remembrance Day, 11 November 2019.  The gardens All the gardens on site are kept in immaculate condition and beautiful flowers grace the memorial in the weeks leading up to and after Anzac Day and Remembrance Day. A granite bench sits under the large tree at the rear of the memorial, providing an ideal place to rest and reflect. A Lone Pine seedling, which was propagated from seeds collected from the original Lone Pine located at the Australian War Memorial, is planted within a decorative garden bed. It is accompanied by a plaque on a low plinth.  Commemorative services Services are conducted each Anzac Day at dawn, and then later in the morning. The morning service begins with a march through the main streets of Toukley. There is a large turnout from the local community and excellent support from the Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, and Royal Australian Air Force. The Remembrance Day service takes place annually at 10.30am.  Interment of ashes A small service is conducted by sub-Branch committee and family members when the remains of Toukley RSL sub-Branch deceased are buried in this sacred place. As at 31 December 2020, the ashes of 419 deceased veterans had been interred on site.