The City of Ballarat is taking steps to preserve its rich public art collection with a series of restoration projects aimed at repairing some of the city’s most cherished sculptures and fountains.
Over the coming weeks, the City will roll out works to restore and enhance the aesthetic appeal of these iconic pieces.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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Peterson Fountain conservation works begin
The famous Peterson Fountain, located opposite Ballarat Base Hospital on Sturt Street, is undergoing conservation work to restore its charm. The repairs will include surface cleaning, reducing iron stains, and reinforcing deteriorating stone. Notably, the fountain’s stone birds will be receiving new beaks, and copper alloy elements will be cleaned and protected.
The works are expected to be completed by the end of June. However, it has been discovered that the fountain’s hydraulic system is also in need of restoration. Given the complexity and high costs involved, the hydraulic repairs will be carried out at a later date.
Queen Victoria Memorial Statue
Another significant project is the restoration of the Queen Victoria Memorial Statue, which stands proudly in front of Ballarat Town Hall on Sturt Street. Starting in the coming days, this project will see comprehensive cleaning, laser treatments, and repairs to the statue’s left hand. Additional work will include consolidating cracks, filling stone losses, repainting, and addressing iron staining. The bronze panels will also be cleaned and waxed, while the winged figure will be regilded to restore its former glory.
Boer War Memorial to be recast in bronze
The Boer War Memorial, a well-known piece in the city, has been removed from its plinth to undergo significant changes. The original sculpture, which was often mistaken for bronze, was in a state of deterioration and needed replacement. The memorial will be recast in bronze and is set to return to its Sturt Street location in May 2025. This vital restoration project has received support from the State Government’s Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour fund, a part of the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
Prime Minister’s Avenue to get a fresh look after theft
In response to the theft of two Prime Minister’s busts from the Ballarat Botanical Gardens on January 23, the City of Ballarat’s Public Art team is working hard to restore these pieces. Using studio copies and moulds provided by the original sculptor, the busts are being recast and repaired. In addition to this, structural welding work is underway on some of the other busts, while the paint damage and graffiti on several busts and two of the Stoddart Collection marble statues have already been removed, with the pieces now back on public display.
With these restoration efforts, the City of Ballarat is ensuring that its public art continues to captivate locals and visitors alike for years to come. Whether it’s the Peterson Fountain, the Queen Victoria Memorial, or the Prime Minister’s Avenue, these works serve as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to preserving its iconic landmarks.
The City of Ballarat strongly condemns graffiti and vandalism of any kind. This type of senseless damage is completely unacceptable.
Investigations by Victoria Police into the damage at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens are continuing. If anyone has any information in relation to this, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
For more information about the City of Ballarat’s public art collection, visit the Creative City website.
