A Hunter Lions club has kick started a community fundraiser to restore two lion statues at a Stockton park which were brought over from Malaya after World War II.
The two statues sit at the entrance to Norm Bassan MBE Lions Park Stockton, and having been affected by concrete cancer, require much-needed attention.
"They've just declined," Hunter Business Lions Club president Jenny Barrie said. "They're in such an iconic spot.
"It's important to preserve history, but also, these poor lions."
Related: History | Bold tales of old Stockton
The monuments were brought back from the Australian Army Camp in Malaya before they were moved to Singleton Army Base, where they watched over the parade grounds for several decades.
They were moved to Norm Bassan Park when the Lions Club of Stockton installed a memorial in 1975 to recognise Stockton's role in the military fortification of Newcastle and to acknowledge those in the area who served in military conflicts.
Ms Barrie said the state of the statues was brought to the club's attention by two Lions members who live in Stockton, where there is no longer a stand-alone Lions club. She said an upgrade would help instill civic pride in the area.
The upgrade project would include restoring the concrete lions, the brick plinths on which they sit, the wooden sign above them and the poppet wheel behind them.
Ms Barrie said the group was hoping to raise $10,000 with the project estimated to cost $15,000. They are also sourcing grants.
To donate, visit mycause.com.au/page/233845/stockton-lions-park-monument-restoration
