Proposal for Aboriginal precinct in Gertrude Street

Council is investigating ways to celebrate the contributions of the Aboriginal community to Yarra's history through a specially designed precinct in Gertrude Street, Fitzroy.

At its meeting on 7 February 2012, Council decided to consult the local community about the proposal to find out how people would like the precinct to look and feel.

As part of the proposal, Council will investigate the idea of installing a statue of an Aboriginal Elder and/or hero in the area. This proposal was first suggested in Council's Aboriginal Partnerships Plan.

Separately, Council has been contacted by the National Public Arts Program (NPAP) to see whether Council would support the installation of a statue of the late Aboriginal champion boxer Lionel Rose in Gertrude Street.

Lionel Rose often visited the Melbourne Aboriginal Youth, Sport and Recreation (MAYSAR) boxing gym in Gertrude Street and was a role model for the young Aboriginal community.

NPAP is proposing that a replica of the Lionel Rose statue in Warragul be installed in Gertrude Street.

Next steps

In the first half of 2012, Council will undertake the first round of community consultation on the proposal for an Aboriginal precinct in Gertrude Street.

The aim will be to gather ideas and suggestions from the community on how the precinct could look and feel, as well as seeking views on proposals for a statue of an Aboriginal figure.

Using the feedback and ideas put forward during the first round of consultation, a draft plan for the precinct is expected to be designed in the 2012-13 financial year.

Council would then seek community feedback on the draft design and, taking on board that feedback, decide on a final design. Council would then need to decide when funding could be allocated for any works.

Further information
Ross Goeman
Manager - Community Planning and Advocacy
9205 5397
Ross.Goeman@yarracity.vic.gov.au