Camden’s historic Memorial Gates, at Onslow Oval, are looking as new as ever, after receiving a face-lift recently.

Work to the interior and exterior of the Memorial Gates upgraded both the functionality and aesthetics of the structure. The work included:

• Repairs and repainting of wrought iron gates;
• Repairs and replacement of sandstone blocks, capstones and repointing of the masonry walls;
• Repairs, and replacement where necessary, of guttering, downpipes, terracotta roof shingles and stone plinths and coping;
• Replacing and repainting of the doors to its original colour;
• Cleaning and repairs to interior wall surfaces;
• Replacing the two Urn’s on the pillars that are like the original design;
• Replacement of missing ceiling boards in both gatehouses and missing Scotia moulding and sliding doors;
• Hand restoration of existing sliding doors and supply of 2 new doors that were damaged by termites;
• Replacement of metal rails for sliding doors, removal of excess timber and plywood; and
• Relaying of the uneven pavers to allow safer pedestrian access.

Seventh Australian Light Horse Regiment AIF member, Len Carter, whose father was a member of the original regiment, played a vital role in contributing to the scope of works and said it was vitally important to keep the historical gates in great condition.

“The Onslow Park and Show Ground was gifted to Camden Residents together with many other pieces of Land and buildings in the area,” Mr Carter said.

“It is very important that the gates be now kept in pristine condition. I continue to be amazed with the enthusiasm and dedication shown by Council Officers in addition to the Heritage Restoration Builder and his team.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said the gates were of significant historical importance.

“They were established in 1933 and dedicated to Brigadier General George Macleay Macarthur-Onslow,” Cr Fedeli said.

“It’s a spectacular monument. We still have the original wrought iron gates hung from original face brick piers, with sandstone base courses and capping. The gates are also bordered by original brick gatehouses, with beautiful and original terracotta tiles.

“I’m proud to say there will be no loss of heritage significance as a result of this restoration work.”

For more information on projects across the Camden area, visit camden.nsw.gov.au/major-developments