For decades, a solemn monument has stood as a powerful reminder of courage, sacrifice, and service.

When reports surfaced of it being defaced, the news left many stunned, sparking outrage and disbelief across the country.


Just after midday on a seemingly ordinary Thursday, witnesses in Hyde Park were stunned to see two men—both aged 61—spraying an unknown substance across the memorial’s granite walls and steps.

According to police, one man targeted the eastern walls and northern steps, while the other focused on the southern steps.


The pair reportedly finished their actions and then strolled away together, leaving onlookers in disbelief.

Detectives from Sydney City Police Area Command wasted no time, launching an urgent investigation.

Less than 36 hours later, both men turned themselves in at the Auburn Police Station, where they were promptly arrested.


The men now face serious charges: wilfully damaging or defacing a protected place, and destroying or damaging property valued between $2,000 and $5,000.

Police allege the substance—believed to be some kind of oil—has caused 'permanent' staining to the memorial’s granite, a claim that has only intensified public anger.

Both men appeared before the Parramatta Local Court on Saturday. As part of their bail conditions, they are now prohibited from coming within 80 metres of any military memorials, including statues.

In a twist that’s left many scratching their heads, the accused men have insisted they meant no harm.

Speaking to Nine News, one of the men claimed their actions were intended as a tribute: 'I wasn’t just honouring them, I was honouring the families. My grandfather was in World War II.' The second man expressed remorse, saying he had 'no intention of causing malicious damage'.

But as we all know, good intentions don’t always lead to good outcomes—especially when it comes to something as significant as the Anzac Memorial.

The alleged defacement has drawn swift and strong condemnation from all corners. Veterans’ groups, community leaders, and everyday Aussies have voiced their anger and disappointment.

NSW Minister for Veterans Affairs, David Harris, didn’t mince words: 'The act of alleged vandalism against the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park is a serious offence against a site of state and national significance.

Any harm to this sacred memorial is an affront to the values it represents and the memory of those it honours.'

For many, the Anzac Memorial is more than just a monument—it’s a living symbol of national pride, resilience, and remembrance.

The idea that anyone would risk damaging it, even unintentionally, is deeply upsetting.

It’s worth pausing to reflect on why incidents like this strike such a nerve. Memorials like the one in Hyde Park aren’t just stone and bronze—they’re places where we gather to remember, to mourn, and to teach future generations about the sacrifices that shaped our country.

For many over 60s, these sites hold personal meaning, whether through family connections or memories of Anzac Day ceremonies.

When a memorial is damaged, it can feel like a personal affront—not just to those who served, but to all of us who value their legacy.

Both men are expected to plead guilty when their case returns to court. The legal process will determine their fate, but the incident has already sparked a broader conversation about how we protect and respect our national monuments.

It’s also a timely reminder for all of us: if you want to pay tribute to our veterans, there are many ways to do so—attending services, laying a wreath, or simply taking a moment of silence. Defacing a memorial, even with the best intentions, is never the answer.


Have you ever visited the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park? What does it mean to you? And how do you feel about this incident and the men’s explanation? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below.

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