Iconic cannon restored

​The restoration of a WWII cannon is now complete and will take pride and place outside the Chester Hill RSL.

The meticulous work to restore the iconic monument to its former glory has been a labour of love and will be in hoisted into place before Anzac Day celebrations.

In a joint operation between the City of Canterbury Bankstown and Bass Hill RSL sub-branch, the cannon will be moved from its current location outside Bass Hill RSL where it has stood for more than 20 years.

Bass Hill RSL sub-branch treasurer Ron Duckworth said he was thrilled to see the cannon restored to its former glory and back on display for everyone to view.

“Our next step is to find out more about the cannon’s history,” he said.

“I’ve been a member of the Bass Hill RSL since the ‘80s and it was on display long before I joined the RSL.”

On Thursday (22 April), Council will assist the Club in relocating the cannon to its new permanent location at Doug Godding Reserve, next to Chester Hill RSL.

Council has also laid a two-by-three metre concrete foundation for the cannon to sit on in a new landscaped area within the reserve.

Mayor Khal Asfour said, despite the current mystery around the cannon’s origins, it’s important that war memorials are looked after.

“Last year I was proud to see the restoration of Roselands War Memorial and this cannon is no less important,” Mayor Asfour said.

“It is memorabilia and memorials like these that serve as a reminder to reflect on the sacrifices of the young men and women who have served this country in all wars, conflicts and emergency actions.”