Officers have spoken to several teenagers alleged to be involved in an incident during which Walgett’s Anzac Memorial was accidentally damaged earlier this month, NSW Police said in a statement last week.
Officers attached to Central North Police District were called to Walgett Memorial Park on Fox Street about 11.30pm on January 14, 2026, after a group of teenagers were allegedly trespassing in the park and damaged the statue of an Anzac soldier by knocking it over.
The ‘Man on the Monument’ was imported from France and officially dedicated in 1922. It was erected to commemorate the end of the First World War and to record the names of the local men who volunteered to serve. It was located in Walgett’s main street for decades before being located to the Memorial Park precinct.
The monument’s destruction was condemned by Walgett Shire Council following the incident.
Following extensive inquiries, five boys – aged between 13 and 15 – and a 13-year-old girl, were spoken to by police and will be dealt with under the Young Offenders Act.
Central North Police District Commander Superintendent Gerard Lawson said Central North Police were committed to finding answers for the community.
“I know members of the community were distressed by the incident and my officers spent many hours examining CCTV and tracking down those involved,” Supt Lawson said.
“Following inquiries, police established the teenagers had no intent to damage the statue, and that the incident appeared accidental.
“While this matter has been resolved, I want to reassure the community that all matters reported to police will be investigated.”
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