Pelican Sculpture to be Removed for Safety Reasons
The carved wooden pelican sculpture that overlooks the Meningie Lions Jubilee Park and main street will soon be removed due to structural safety concerns, with the works commencing from Monday, 19 September 2022.
Commissioned in 2015, the sculpture was formed through the carving of a mature Aleppo Pine in the Meningie Lions Jubilee Park and has quickly become a recognisable and valued landmark within the Meningie township.
Concerns regarding the condition of the sculpture resulted in restoration being undertaken in 2018, which included coating the sculpture for prevention of water infiltration and reduction of wood decay.
In July 2022, a qualified arborist was engaged to assess the condition of the sculpture. The arborist’s report determined that the sculpture is experiencing a significant level of decay that places it at risk of becoming structurally unsound.
Given the risk that the sculpture poses to the safety of the community and general public, removal of the sculpture will take place from Monday, 19 September 2022. The removal will be undertaken by a qualified arborist, with all appropriate safety precautions put into place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the public. Following its removal, an assessment of the sculpture’s condition will be undertaken to determine possible next steps.
To continue to celebrate public art in the Meningie landscape, opportunities for funding a replacement artwork will be explored by the Council. A report will be brought back to the Council with relevant details once opportunities have been identified.
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Contact:
Bridget Mather
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | COORONG DISTRICT COUNCIL
Phone: 1300 785 277 | E: bmather@coorong.sa.gov.au