War memorial could be moved

Careful consideration will be given to a plan to move Bunbury’s heritage-listed War Memorial from where it has stood for almost 90 years.

A recommendation for moving the memorial from Anzac Park was included in the Leschenault Inlet Masterplan approved by the Bunbury City Council on June 11.

The council dealt with the recommendation separately and referred it to City of Bunbury officers and relevant stakeholders — including the RSL — for review.

City of Bunbury heritage officer Leigh Barrett said there was a lot to consider before moving the memorial.

“The moving of the memorial to the Leschenault Inlet was suggested at council, however it is on the State Register of Heritage Places and so moving it is unlikely to be supported,” she said.

“The options for the movement or creation of a second memorial will be further considered.

“The RSL will certainly be heavily involved in the consultation process.”

Bunbury RSL acting president Tony Zajer said stakeholders were a long way off from making a decision about the future of the memorial.

“At this point it’s only the suggestion of a long-term plan,” he said.

“Our reason for coming forward is because we want to be involved in the process.”

Bunbury councillor Judy Jones said any proposed location for the memorial on the Leschenault Inlet would be critical to any move.

Last week, the council also voted to allocate money for the temporary restoration of the memorial as part of the Anzac Park Conservation Plan.

The funds will go towards restoring the hat and nose of the soldier on top of the memorial.