By Dominique Tassell
A sculpture by local artist Gabriele Trabucco was left to lay on the table, with requests from Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) that the Public Art Reference Group (PARG) undertake more risk assessment.
It was recommended by SDRC staff that councillors at a meeting on 25 May not approve the application, due to concerns expressed by PARG.
The group’s reasons for recommending Gabrielle’s sculpture, titled “The Gymnast Proposal”, not be approved were outlined in the agenda item.
Gabriele proposed the steel sculpture be installed along Quart Pot Creek.
The sculpture consists of a steel figure of a gymnast standing on one hand resting on a 3.5 metre steel post.
It was proposed that the sculpture be installed in the vicinity of the exercise area and children’s playground approximately 100 metres southwest of Carnarvon Bridge.
Two members of PARG ruled in favour of the project, stating it would add to the approved Sculpture Trail along Quart Pot Creek.
Three members voted against the project, with two of those citing concerns about the risk associated with it.
One member stated the sculpture could be moved in windy conditions and result in structural failure.
Another stated that “a thorough risk assessment needs to consider engineering factors, public safety and influence by natural forces such as strong wind and storms”.
A third stated the expense was not warranted.
In the meeting, Cr Sheryl Windle asked if a decision could be deferred so that risk could be mitigated and the sculpture possibly approved.
Staff said they could go back and ask for more information.
Cr Jo McNally stated she would prefer this because there is a resolution from SDRC to approve works in the sculpture trail.
She asked for it to be added to the motion that they ask for further information regarding the risk assessment.
Cr Marco Gliori said the concerns were around the sculpture’s safety, and they may need more expert guidance on this issue.
Chief Executive Dave Burges then suggested they let it lay on the table, which passed successfully.
A second item was mentioned in the agenda but not discussed.
Mr Burges later confirmed the second application mentioned at the meeting would be discussed by councillors on 8 June 2022. We will share that information online and in next week’s edition.
Artist Gabriele Trabucco could not be contacted for this article.
