Nowra General Cemetery Vandalism
Published on 17 September 2019
Shoalhaven City Council has been shocked at the vandalism that has occurred over the weekend at the Military Portion of the Nowra General Cemetery.
Five headstones of World War 2 Servicemen have been severely damaged. Director of Assets and Works, Paul Keech expressed his deep dismay at the news of the destruction.
“Such senseless destruction and disrespect is a sad reflection on the values of those who have committed these acts”, he said.
A report has been made to Police and the Bereavement Services Unit of Shoalhaven City Council has been working with the Office of Australian War Graves to offer assistance in assessing and addressing the damage.
The Military Portion of Nowra General Cemetery encompasses an area that commemorates those who died in a theatre of war under the auspices of Office of Australian War Graves. It also contains a Royal Australian Navy portion for those who died in Navy service and a Military Portion for members of the Australian Defence Forces and their spouses, both managed by Shoalhaven City Council in conjunction with the Military Support Officer, HMAS Albatross.
“This act is devastating for the families of the servicemen, the members of the RSL Sub-Branch who care for the area and for the Nowra community in general”, Mr Keech said.
A report into security options for the site will be included in a review of CCTV systems which will be reported to Council.
Anyone who has information regarding this incident are encouraged to contact the Police.