My great uncle’s name – Jens (James) Orvad, who was among the original landing party on Anzac Cove – along with many others who fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice, are remembered  on this historic 1924 monument.

Over six months ago I contacted federal MP for Cunningham Sharon Bird’s office to inquire if there was any funding available to give the ageing memorial a facelift.  At the time, I was pleased to hear that funding had been provided.

 You can imagine my disappointment when I dropped by Slacky Flat – a week out from the commemorations – to find the marble plaques covered in mould, cracked, and, in parts unreadable. 

This begs the questions: how much funding was provided to “restore” the cenotaph, and where, and how was the funding spent? I noticed that the sandstone pillar had been cleaned, but besides that, I couldn’t see any significant “restoration”. The state of this cenotaph is a disgrace, especially as we approach the centenary commemorations on Saturday. 

Mick Roberts, Bulli 

I cannot believe people in this country are still ignorant about our Diggers.  Once these culprits [who defaced the Corrimal war memorial] have been caught, apart from their sentencing they must pay for the damage.

They must go on the Kokoda Track,   they must read Richard Flanagan’s The Narrow Road to the Deep North,    they must stand outside all night and when they get tired and fall, must be stood up again and again, then they must walk around and around and then do so in minimal clothes. They obviously have not got why they can live in Australia.  Lest We Forget. These people obviously do not know the reason why.

Judith Harrington, Warilla

As a senior statesman of the NRL franchise, Darryl Brohman has been admired in particular for his efforts and rapport with young children in their introduction to the game. Now however, no doubt due to his TV contractual requirements,  it is extremely disappointing to see him extolling the dubious virtues of online gambling. Shame on Channel 9.  Sorry Darryl, but in this instance, I am not with you! 

Eric Davies, Keiraville

The big wigs of science tell us that there are hundreds of black holes out there in space, and that they are very dangerous because they can suck in whole stars and planets.

Well, you don’t have to go and look for them, as they’re here in our great country, created by none other than Tony Abbott. He will create these big suckers to gobble up all our spare cash, and then some.

 I have an idea for him and Hockey; just take all the money from the poorer pensioner, and just give out food vouchers and clothing vouchers – that should give him some extra cash to waste on what we will never know. One thing is for sure, it will never be spent on health and education. 

Lawrence Wren, Fairy Meadow