Restoration works to the Malmsbury World War I Memorial - a significant heritage landmark marking one of the key entrances to the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens - have now been completed, following a community-led collaboration with local and state government partners.
Mayor Kate Kendall joined State Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today to officially unveil the restored memorial. The project was led by the Friends of Malmsbury Gardens and Environs, and supported by a $27,492 grant from the Victorian Government's Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Program.
Council contributed in-kind support to ensure the project met the high standards required for a memorial of this importance. This included an initial letter of support that enabled the grant application, as well as extensive project oversight, heritage and horticultural advice, and logistical assistance. Additional support was provided by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, and Heritage Victoria.
Mayor Kendall said the project reflected the strength of the partnership between Council and the Friends group, as well as Council's commitment to protecting the shire's heritage and horticultural assets.
"Council is incredibly proud to have supported this restoration from beginning to end. Our officers played a key role in guiding the project, offering technical expertise in heritage planning, horticulture and asset management to ensure the memorial was restored with the care and heritage craftsmanship it deserves," she said.
"I want to acknowledge the Friends of Malmsbury Gardens and Environs - especially Paula Needham - for their commitment and leadership. Community passion is what drives projects like this, and Council is proud to stand alongside a group so deeply committed to preserving local history."
Mayor Kendall said the restoration returned the memorial to a condition that honours those who served, while strengthening the cultural and historical value of the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens.
The revitalisation of the memorial also aligns with the Malmsbury Botanic Garden Master Plan, which identifies the enhancement and preservation of key heritage features - including the World War I Memorial - as an important priority. The restoration supports Council's long-term vision for protecting the gardens' cultural, historical and landscape values.
The restored memorial now continues its longstanding role as a place of reflection and remembrance and remains a key feature of the heritage-rich Malmsbury Botanic Gardens.
For more information about the botanic gardens in our shire, please visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Botanic-Gardens
Pictured (from L to R): Malmsbury Gardens and Environs Secretary Paula Needham, Cr Jennifer Anderson, Mayor Kate Kendall, State Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas, Malmsbury Gardens and Environs President Rosemary Davies, Cr Janet Pearce, and Cr Rob Guthrie.
