Walgett RSL sub branch president Robert Ward together with the local mayor and council General Manager are still bewildered by the lack of respect from young people who shattered the century old ‘Man on the Monument Statue.

While recent information indicates the statue's destruction may have been accidental, the state's peak body for veterans says they will fund its restoration.

“RSL NSW stands firmly with the people of Walgett," RSL NSW President Vincent Williams said.

“We will ensure this memorial is restored, and we will continue to champion respect for the sacred places that keep the ANZAC spirit alive.”

Police are continuing their inquiries after a group of young people was allegedly caught on CCTV knocking the statue to the ground late last Wednesday night (14 January 2026), causing it to shatter into pieces.

On Tuesday 27 January it seemed there was a breakthrough with Police saying they have spoken to several teenagers alleged to be involved in an incident during which Walgett’s Anzac Memorial was accidentally damaged earlier this month.

Officers attached to Central North Police District were called to Walgett Memorial Park on Fox Street about 11.30pm (Wednesday 14 January 2026), after a group of teenagers were allegedly trespassing in the park and damaged the statue of an Anzac soldier by knocking it over.

Following extensive inquiries, five boys – aged between 13 and 15 – and a 13-year-old girl, were spoken to by police.

Central North Police District Commander, Superintendent Gerard Lawson, said Central North Police were committed to finding answers for the community.

“I know members of the community were distressed by the incident and my officers spent many hours examining CCTV and tracking down those involved,” Supt Lawson said.

“Following inquiries, police established the teenagers had no intent to damage the statue, and that the incident appeared accidental.

“While this matter has been resolved, I want to reassure the community that all matters reported to police will be investigated.”

Vincent Williams RSL NSW President backs Walgett. [IMAGE: RSL NSW]

Mr Williams said he was particularly troubled by the reported age of those involved.

“It is profoundly disappointing to learn that those allegedly responsible are so young,” he said.

“War memorials are sacred sites. They are not just pieces of stone; they represent real people, real sacrifices, and real stories of service.

"This incident highlights the ongoing need for us as a community to continue educating young people about the significance of these places and why they must always be treated with respect.”

RSL NSW will ensure the restoration of the Walgett ANZAC memorial is fully supported.

“I want to make it absolutely clear that RSL NSW will fund the restoration through the RSL NSW Sub-Branch Support and Assistance Fund so that the Walgett RSL sub-Branch and local community do not have to bear the significant financial burden of repairing this important monument,” Mr Williams said.

“We will work hand-in-hand with the local sub-Branch, Walgett Shire Council, and local veterans to make sure the memorial is carefully restored and returned to its rightful place as a focal point for remembrance and reflection.”

Mr Williams also welcomed the NSW Government’s recent strengthening of laws protecting war memorials, which increased penalties for those who damage or desecrate monuments.

“These tougher penalties send a clear and important message – that attacks on war memorials will not be tolerated,” Mr Williams said.

“Our memorials honour the service and sacrifice of generations of Australians. They deserve the strongest possible protections under the law.”