A grant has been awarded to Bathurst Regional Council to assist in weather-proofing the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon for future generations.
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The grant, worth $10,000, was delivered through the state government's Community War Memorials Fund, and will see an epoxy coating system applied to the Carillon's belfry to further preserve the structure.
State member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the Carillon is an iconic part of the community that requires a great deal of care to maintain.
"The Carillon is a constant reminder of those who have served in war and peacekeeping operations throughout history," Mr Toole said.
"Some areas of the Carillon are constantly exposed to the weather, and this grant will ensure the protection of the interior for years to come."
The funding follows a $300,000 grant delivered by the state government in 2018 towards works to finally complete the Carillon more than 80 years after it was originally erected.
"The Carillon is a constant reminder of those who have served in war and peacekeeping operations throughout history."
- Paul Toole
The works included a new octave of bells [installed in November 2018], a bronze LED sculpture to replace the Eternal Flame [unveiled on Anzac Day 2019] and the installation of a clavier [expected by September this year].
"This year will see Bathurst commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, and we hope to see the Carillon fully complete in time to mark the occasion in September," Mr Toole said.
Respected local architect Henry Bialowas said the open structure design of the Carillon can leave it vulnerable to the elements.
"Some of the water-proofing infrastructure hasn't been refurbished since the Carillon was built, so it's important to protect the structure from leaks," Mr Bialowas said.
"We prepared a heritage impact statement around the time the new bells were installed, and the impact of water damage was one of the issues that arose from it."
Mr Bialowas said preparations are now under way to install a clavier, which will allow for greater tonal control over the Carillon's bells.
"We need to remove the existing pneumatic keyboard to make way for the clavier, which will enhance the Carillon's sound like never before," Mr Bialowas said.
"It's not quite a complete Carillon yet, but it will be very shortly."
Last month, a practice clavier was installed in the caretaker's cottage in Machattie Park for the Mitchell Conservatorium to train prospective Carillon players.