By Ewen McRae
A new commemorative sculpture will mark the entrance of the Bacchus Marsh Avenue of Honour.
The 2.9-kilometre long avenue is one of the largest war memorials in Australia. The sculpture has been commissioned as part of the Centenary of Armistice celebrations.
Produced by local designers Mark Gilliland and Meghan McBain, and sculptor Dean Bowen, the artwork –
Resting Poppy – will feature a vividly- coloured, multi-part bronze sculpture, interwoven with 464 name plaques.
Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell said it would be a significant project for a well-loved local icon.
“The significance of the WWI commemorative sculpture cannot be over-stated,” Cr Tatchell said.
“The Bacchus Marsh RSL has worked tirelessly to bring this project to life and should be commended for their efforts.”
For Mr Bowen, the sculpture will have a deeply personal connection after the discovery his great-grandfather’s service plaque is on one of the trees in the avenue.
“I felt extremely moved and honoured knowing that this tree was planted in 1918 to honour my great-grandfather Archie Davis,” he said.
The sculpture is expected to be completed in late-2020.
