Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The men who worked on the restoration holding certificates of appreciation, along with Kenneth Willoughby the Far Northern District RSL Sub Branch President (Centre), and Robert Lang the President of the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch (Far Right) Photo credit: Victoria Velton
A restored World War II-era 40mm Bofors gun has officially been unveiled outside the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, where it will stand as a lasting tribute to Australia's military history and those who served.
The naval gun, donated by HMAS Cairns, underwent an extensive restoration after it was found to require significant repairs before it could be placed on display.
The project was supported through grant funding under Stream A of the 2024 Anzac Day Trust Fund Grants Program, with much of the restoration also made possible through the dedication of local volunteers and businesses who recognised the historical significance of the relic and what it would mean to the Cardwell community.
Cardwell RSL Sub Branch President Robert Lang spoke at Sunday's unveiling, sharing the history of the Bofors gun, detailing the restoration process and acknowledging the many people who contributed their time, skills and resources to return the wartime relic to its former condition.
Mr Lang thanked those involved in the project, including local businesses, volunteers and personnel who assisted with dismantling, repairs, painting and reassembly.
Now mounted outside the Cardwell RSL, the restored gun is set to become a prominent feature of the memorial precinct, serving as a reminder of the role similar weapons played during World War II and preserving an important piece of Australia's wartime heritage for future generations.
The unveiling marked the culmination of years of paperwork and months of restoration work and reflects the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch's ongoing commitment to preserving military history while honouring the service and sacrifice of Australia's veterans.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes. Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
.jpg)
.jpg)
