Geelong's iconic and colourful waterfront bollards, a cherished feature of the city's landscape for decades, have been thrown a vital lifeline. The Geelong City Council has unveiled a comprehensive new strategy to rescue and preserve the deteriorating sculptures, backed by a significant financial commitment.
A $1.5 Million Rescue Mission for Cultural Icons
The centrepiece of the plan is a dedicated allocation of $1.5 million over the next three years, sourced from the council's 2024-25 draft budget. This funding is earmarked specifically for the restoration, maintenance, and future management of the bollard collection. The decision follows growing community concern over the state of the figures, many of which have suffered from prolonged exposure to harsh weather and salt air, leading to fading, cracking, and structural damage.
The bollards, whimsical carvings depicting historical and fictional characters, were originally created by artist Jan Mitchell. They have stood along the Geelong Waterfront since the mid-1990s, becoming an integral part of the city's identity and a major tourist drawcard. Their poor condition had prompted urgent calls for action from residents and visitors alike.
Phased Restoration and a Sustainable Future
The council's strategy outlines a multi-phased approach to the bollard crisis. The immediate focus will be on a detailed condition assessment of all 104 bollards. This audit will categorise each figure based on the severity of damage, prioritising those in most urgent need of repair.
Following the assessment, a program of conservation works will begin. This is not a simple repaint job; the plan involves specialist art conservators who will use appropriate techniques and materials to repair the timber sculptures authentically, ensuring their longevity. The council has also committed to developing a long-term conservation management plan. This forward-thinking document will establish ongoing maintenance schedules, funding models, and policies for potential future additions to the collection, moving beyond ad-hoc fixes to a sustainable preservation model.
Securing a Legacy for Generations to Come
The announcement has been welcomed as a crucial step in safeguarding Geelong's public art heritage. The bollards are more than just street furniture; they are a storytelling device, an artistic landmark, and a backdrop to countless family photos and community events. By investing in their preservation, the council is recognising their immense cultural and economic value to the region.
The draft budget containing the bollard funding is now open for public feedback, giving the community a final chance to endorse the plan. If approved, work on the first phase of assessment and urgent repairs could commence in the coming financial year. This proactive plan aims to ensure that the distinctive characters lining Geelong's waterfront will continue to charm residents and visitors for many more decades to come.
