Police are investigating after the marble rifle from a century-old war statue was stolen in Walgett earlier this week.

Police said they received a report yesterday that an ANZCAC memorial in Walgett Memorial Park on Fox Street had been damaged.

They arrived to find the soldier's arm had also been damaged.

A police spokesperson said they believe the incident took place between Monday 10 February 2025 and Thursday 13 February.

"You wouldn't be able to print if I told you," Walgett RSL sub-branch president Robert Ward said when asked his reaction to hearing about the damage on Thursday morning.

"It's just a total lack of respect," he said. "Everyone's totally disgusted."

The statue was moved from its original spot at a roundabout after a truck collision in 2021. A replica was installed in its place. IMAGE: River McCrossen

The 'Man on the Monument' was imported from France and officially dedicated in 1922 to commemorate the end of World War One, designed by Sydney-based D W Carter & Co.

In 2021, the statue was toppled from its place on the roundabout monument at the intersection between Fox and Wee Waa streets after a trailer truck struck it.

It suffered irreparable damage and couldn't be put back, so it was given a new home in the park.

Police are urging anyone with dashcam footage, CCTV or information about the incident to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.