The memorial obelisk is a significant place of remembrance for Victorian Jewish servicemen who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars. It represents the renewal and continuation of Jewish war commemoration in Victoria, building on a tradition of remembrance established more than a century ago.
The Victorian Government has committed $30,000 through the Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Grant program, with the remaining cost to be met by Council.
The project is being delivered in partnership with the Victorian Association of Jewish Ex & Serviceman & Women Australia (VAJEX).
A memorial with deep community and historic significance
The Ripponlea obelisk is closely linked to the original Victorian Jewish War Memorial erected in 1924 by the Chevra Kadisha at the Melbourne General Cemetery. Together, these memorials honour Victorian Jewish servicemen and provide places for mourning, reflection and communal remembrance.
While the Melbourne General Cemetery obelisk served this role for many decades within a burial ground setting, the Victorian Jewish War Memorial in Ripponlea continues that commemorative tradition in a public garden and remains the principal site of military remembrance for the Jewish community within the City of Port Phillip.
The grant funded project will address structural deterioration and conserve the memorial's heritage fabric so it remains stable, safe and dignified for the community and future commemorative activities.
Works are scheduled to commence in July.
