Bega Valley Shire Council resolved to install the ‘Landed’ sculpture in Bemboka’s Memorial Park following consultation and feedback from the community.
The ‘Landed’ sculpture, an eagle landing with its legs stretched and talons gripping the shape of a heart, was created by Moruya artist, Thomas Westra.
‘Landed’ was the winner of the Sculpture Bermagui Acquisitive prize and was identified by the Public Art Advisory Panel as being suitable for the township of Bemboka.
“Possible sites for the sculpture were considered following feedback from the Bemboka community and an assessment of site suitability by the panel,” Bega Valley Shire Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said.
“Criteria included adequate site area, whether the land was Council owned or managed, likely installation costs, and synergies with the immediate locality.”
Two suitable sites were identified. Site 1 at Bicentennial Park, on the corner of Snowy Mountains Highway and Hoskins Street, and Site 2 in Memorial Park, near the corner of Snowy Mountains Highway and Broad Street.
“These two options were put to the community via a poll,” Cr Fitzpatrick said.
“A high level of community interest was achieved, with a total of 141 responses.
“Both sites were found to be publicly supported, with Site 2 in Memorial Park receiving 73 votes and Bicentennial Park receiving 68 votes.”
Public art is a captivating way of celebrating the identity and history of a community, enhancing the environment and contributing to a sense of place.
“As a small community, generosity of spirit goes a long way. The addition of significant public art works to our landscape adds vitality and shared history to our Shire and provides valuable depth to our tourism offering,” Cr Fitzpatrick said.
To recognise and thank individuals and businesses who donated to the sculpture, an official unveiling will be organised once the sculpture is installed.
