ROJECT OVERVIEW

Located in Cameron Park, Wellington NSW, the Wellington Cenotaph was designed by the renowned sculptor Gilbert Doble, and unveiled on the 24th May 1933. It commemorates those who served in the First and Second World Wars, as well as the Vietnam War. The Cenotaph features three copper electrolyte type sculptural figures: the sword-wielding ‘Winged Victory’, the ‘Spirit of Australia’ as it embarked on WWI, and the embodiment of ‘History’. Attached copper alloy honour rolls on the walls of the monument list the names of those who served during the three conflicts. Three tiers of masonry steps ascend a grassy knoll, leading to a circular path of decomposed granite. From this path, three additional steps lead up to the Cenotaph, which is insulated in landscaped parkland and accessed via a set of memorial gates.

The significant task of repairing the memorial was co-funded by Dubbo Regional Council and $40,000 from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure fund. Following an open-tender process O’Sullivan Conservation was engaged to undertake the restoration work in 2021.

Preserving the Cenotaph and its historical significance required a comprehensive and meticulous conservation treatment. The treatment began with a gentle wet clean of the monument, and hand
cleaning to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the surface. Mechanical reduction of staining and careful removal of adhesive residues and other deposits followed. A biocide was then applied to the stonework to counteract areas of biological growth. The treatment included the complete removal and replacement of the failing pointing in the masonry, following testing and confirmation that there was no asbestos-containing material present.

A comprehensive conservation treatment was undertaken for the copper alloy elements, including corrosion treatment, removal and replacement of failing and inappropriate previous repairs, seam repairs, and the hot wax application as a protective measure. Local artist, Brett ‘Mon’ Garling, was
engaged to fabricate a replacement solid bronze little ‘pinky’ finger for ‘Victory’, to align with the main body of the sculpture. The copper alloy plaques were cleaned and waxed, and loose and misspelled lettering was carefully reinstated in consultation with Council personnel and referencing
the NSW War Memorials Register.

For those who wish to delve deeper, the NSW War Memorials Register has further information:
Wellington Cenotaph – NSW War Memorials Register

Further information on the project can be found at: Winged Victory Revival – Dubbo Regional Council

Additionally, a time-lapse video of the work being undertaken can be found on O’Sullivan Conservation’ s YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/CKEJWzNIkFI? si=iH0rjT0aZSZ9T23F