WOLLONGONG ADVERTISER
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Migrants have helped shape the vibrant city that Wollongong is today and this will soon be reflected in a prominent public artwork.
From the growth of the steel, mining and construction industries, the city’s bus services and developing large social clubs, such as the Fraternity Club, migration has had a major effect on Wollongong’s development.
Expressions of interest are being invited from artists to create a large piece of public art at George Dodd Reserve, on the corner of Cliff Road and Georges Place, North Wollongong, recognising the city’s migrants.
The proposal was sparked by Calabria Cultural Centre members Mary Zanotto, Dom Chieffe and Domenica Risorto eight years ago.
‘‘We went to the botanic gardens and the city council to see if we could get some support,’’ Mrs Zanotto said.
About three years ago the council agreed the proposal was worth considering and the Migration Public Art Project was born, with the council’s practical support and funding.
The project’s steering committee includes representatives of Calabria Cultural Centre, the city council, the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra, Illawarra Multicultural Services, the Macedonian and Greek communities, and the Illawarra Migration Heritage Project.
Mrs Zanotto said they looked at 16 different sites before settling on George Dodd Reserve, which overlooks the ocean.
Seminars with Wollongong’s migrant community in 2012 highlighted water as a key theme, because many migrants arrived by boat.
‘‘Escape, courage, new future, freedom, journey by sea and boat constantly kept coming up,’’ Mr Chieffe said.
About $60,000 has been raised but the goal is $120,000 and more sponsors and donations are needed.
Mr Chieffe said many migrants worked at Port Kembla Steelworks so the committee hoped BlueScope Steel would support the project.
Expressions of interest close at 5pm on February 27. Go to www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au or call 4227 7111.
Donations, sponsorship: 0419 555 495