MemorialsBaradine War Memorial and Memorial Pool
About
The Baradine Memorial Pool was developed as a memorial to the men and women of the district who died in the First and Second World Wars. It was dedicated on 10 November 1961. In the front forecourt of the pool's entry pavilion is a sandstone block wall. Attached to the front of the wall is a dedication plaque and an honour roll for the wars. Two flagpoles are also nearby. After the Second World War, a Baradine Progress Association Baths Committee was formed to investigate the construction of public baths for the town (Coonabarabran Times, 24 January 1952). By early February discussions took place about a possible site and several donations were promised, with further fundraising suggestions made including dances, other social events and an art union (Coonabarabran Times, 7 February 1952). That month a 'B for Baths' project was launched. Reference was made to the number of children unable to swim at a Far West Camp and the loss of Australian soldiers at the evacuation of Crete because they could not swim. The Coonabarabran Times, 14 February 1952, advertised a public meeting in Coonabarabran on 19 February giving residents of both Baradine and Binnaway the opportunity to hear from the Coonabarbran RSSAILA sub-Branch about their successful campaign for the construction of baths. A week later a deputation from the Baradine Progress Association addressed Coonabarabran Shire Council, requesting assistance in securing a government subsidy of one third of the construction cost of $20,000 for the baths, and the promise of technical advice (Coonabarabran Times, 21 February 1952). Eventually the Progress Association considered the best action was to construct the baths by voluntary labour, and all construction costs were fully covered by the local community.