Boorowa’s iconic War Memorial Clock has been repaired, just in time for this year’s ANZAC Day Services.
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The clock has been out of action for a number of years, with repairs taking place in late March.
Boorowa RSL sub-Branch President Phil Armitage said it was great to see the clock working once again.
“The Boorowa War Memorial has dominated the town of Boorowa since 1933 and I think it is fair to say that the townsfolk here consider the War Memorial Clock in as an icon overlooking the town,” he said.
“Certainly, the use of the letters A N Z A C to represent the hours on the clock face is quite novel and not often seen.
“It is well known that the clock has not worked properly for several years with random poor time-keeping, and in the last year no time-keeping at all – it had stopped.”
Phil said the clock tower is accessed through a small hatch, nine metres above floor height so a scaffold was erected inside the Memorial to ensure safe access to clock mechanism.
“The serviceman found that the mechanism was worn and the electric motor which drives the hands did not work,” he said.
“He attempted unsuccessfully to repair the clock but even a temporary repair was not possible.
“He considered that any such repair would result in high maintenance costs and regular visits to effect even more repairs which would only delay the inevitable – complete replacement of the mechanism, motor and workings of the clock.”
Phil said the new mechanism and clock controller with GPS synchronisation will provide split second accuracy, automatic daylight savings adjustment and resetting after a power interruption.
“Also included is a digital controller with amplifier and speakers which incorporates a digital chime system allowing for the programmed play of swinging bell peals, the Angelus, Funeral tolls, the Last Post and a limited selection of included melodies,” he said.
“The "Westminster", or other hourly melody may be programmed on the ¼, ½, ¾, and full hour, followed by hour-strike.”
The system may be programmed to play all hours, during specified hours, days of the week, or for a specific date.
“Quality outdoor loudspeaker horns are provided but they are mounted within the clock tower so as not to spoil the look of the clock tower,” Phil said.
Phil said one can’t initiate a project like this without the capacity to pay for it to completion and with this in mind, the RSL sub-branch appreciates the support received from local organisations.
“In particular we give thanks to the Boorowa Community Bank for their donation of $12,000,” he said.
“They are always there to assist with funds for worthwhile local projects and their support is deeply appreciated.
“Also, we thank the Boorowa Arts and Crafts Co-op Limited for their generous donation of $5,000. The Lions Club of Boorowa have donated $1,000 to help with the cause.
“Please support these local organisations.”
Hilltops Council has donated $1,600 dollars and further authorised the use of $3,000 from the Boorowa War Memorial Restoration Fund.
“On a more personal level Mr Tim Berry from Tik Electrical has donated a significant amount of time and materials to take care of the electrical side of the installation,” Phil said.
“Mr Alan Banks, builder, has also donated his time as well as scaffolding for the project.
“Sincere thanks are offered to these gentlemen and if you need a tradesman please support these locals.”