Around 30 people attended the morning ceremony on October 20 to commemorate the centenary of James Padley’s death on October 20, 1918.

The event was organised by Lithgow City Council with the help of author of ‘Padley of the Pedestal – James McMillan Padley’, Keith Painter.

Mr Painter wrote a book - launched the day prior - showcasing the life of Padley, which features many connections to Parkes, with all but one of his six siblings having lived in Parkes at some stage.

“Recently it was looking very sad, the plaque was damaged and smashed,” Mr Painter said. 

He said he approached the Lithgow council and they had been very supportive and helpful with the restoration.

“Now you can read what it says and know what it means,” he said. 

Lithgow City Council community and cultural manager Matthew Johnson said James Padley made a magnificent contribution to Lithgow in the early 20^th century.

“Although Lithgow wasn’t his first, second or third destination, we are very fortunate that James Padley eventually settled here where he contributed so much to its development,” he said.

Mr Johnson also said James Padley was a keen environmentalist.

“He was the driving force in the Lithgow Progress Association and the chief instigator in the development of Hassans Walls," he said.

“We are very fortunate that Keith Painter has brought the story of James Padley alive."

The monument was restored by Lee Blaker of Hard Rock Memorials.

Mr Painter gave a short informational talk about why the monument was important.

“James Padley arrived in Lithgow in 1902.

“He fell in love with Hassans Walls and through the Lithgow Progress Association he campaigned for a proper track,” he said.

Mr Painter also said he thought James would have stood there for a long time taking in his first sights of the panoramic view.       

The memorial was unveiled by James Padley’s great niece Jean Crook, whose mother, Eva Freeman was born in Parkes and raised a family in Peak Hill.

“Jean and her husband Jim and son Matthew have come all the way from Maryborough in Queensland for my book launch and the re-dedication so I thank them for that,” Mr Painter said.

He also thanked everyone else for coming on the day.

“Thanks to Lithgow City Council, especially Matthew Johnson, and to Lee Blaker of Hard Rock Memorials for restoring the memorial,” he said.

Mr Painter said the future of Lithgow lies in tourism.

“Hassans Walls is, I believe, Lithgow’s greatest natural tourist attraction and a great place for residents too."

“Let us honor the memory of James Padley by caring for it,” he said. ​