Council condemns theft of war memorial honour roll
Published on 23 July 2024
Council condemns theft of war memorial honour roll
Ku-ring-gai Council has condemned the theft of an outdoor honour roll commemorating the First World War service of 67 Turramurra residents, including seven who died in battle.
In a theft believed to have taken place some time either on late Sunday 21 July, or early Monday 22 July, someone took the left honour roll from an entrance gate to Turramurra Memorial Park. The roll was made of bronze and at least 2m high.
The gate was opened by the NSW Governor Sir Dudley de Chair in 1928, with photos showing the Governor undertaking the opening by removing a British flag from the left honour roll.
Media reports at the time showed a large crowd in attendance, and quoted Governor de Chair as saying the gate symbolised the passage that locals had taken into the “unknown and unfamiliar world of hardship and danger” in the European battlefields.
Ku-ring-gai Mayor Sam Ngai said the theft was appalling and urged witnesses to come forward.
“After being alerted to the theft, the Council informed Hornsby police who are now undertaking an investigation,” Mayor Ngai said.
“The construction of this honour roll, and the surrounding memorial gate, was funded through community donations to commemorate the fallen of the First World War,” Mayor Ngai said. “It provided an ongoing and solemn reminder of the service of local residents fighting for our nation on faraway battlefields.”
“It is appalling to think that, nearly 100 years on, the roll has been stolen in the dead of night.”
Anyone who has information about the theft is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Hornsby Police.
Lieutenant Norman Dougall, who was awarded a Military Cross after bravely leading a counter attack at Louverval in France, was among the soldiers named on the stolen honour roll.
On 15 April 1917, Dougall was said to have “greatly distinguished himself during a strong attack launched against our lines by the enemy…after the posts in his immediate front had been wiped out, he organised and led forward a counter attack with conspicuous bravery and skill, driving back the enemy and undoubtedly saving the situation in his vicinity. He attacked a force of about 70 with a platoon of 30. His action caused considerable loss to the enemy and stemmed the onslaught.”
Sadly, Dougal died three weeks later in Bullecourt.
Media contact:
Mark Skelsey media@krg.nsw.gov.au 9424 0982 or 0403 197 523