BILLABONG BIRD SCULPTURE TO TAKE OFF IN KOORALBYN

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Billabong bird

Council has approved the concept design of a sculpture to be installed at Billabong Park Kooralbyn as part of the Scenic Rim Story Marker Project.

The Kooralbyn Legacy Public Artwork piece, Billabong Bird, has been designed by local metal sculptor Christopher Trotter, whose Blumbergville Clock design has become a Boonah Town Centre landmark.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said the Billabong Bird would be an exciting addition to artworks adding vibrancy to the region's public spaces.

Scenic Rim Arts Reference Group Chair Councillor Nadia O'Carroll said nine submissions were received and four concepts shortlisted and displayed within the community to obtain feedback on a preferred sculpture for Kooralbyn's Billabong Park.

"Community feedback has been an important part of the process in choosing a piece which is relevant and will live harmoniously in the natural environment," she said.

"This artwork will use discarded industrial material and, through that use of metals, will also reference early settler John Tinker Campbell.

"The water theme of the project was also very appropriate to the location of Billabong Park and the shows the importance of water to the region's prosperity."

The Scenic Rim Story Marker Project involves the creation and installation of public art and way finder statements at key locations throughout the region, adding to the vibrancy of open spaces for residents and visitors.

"The Billabong Bird is an outstanding work that I am sure will become iconic," Cr O'Carroll said.

Division 4 Councillor Michael Enright said there was a great interest in the sculpture during the community consultation.

"The sculpture chosen is most appropriate and will certainly be welcomed," he said.