Geelong's beloved and quirky waterfront icons, the Baywalk Bollards, are facing a serious threat from neglect and decay, according to former mayor Darryn Lyons. The colourful carved figures, which have become synonymous with the city's identity, are reportedly in a state of disrepair, with paint peeling and wood rotting.
A Beloved Landmark Falling into Disrepair
The bollard collection, a major tourist attraction stretching along the Geelong Waterfront, features over 100 unique characters celebrating the region's history and people. Installed in stages since the 1990s, they depict everyone from lifeguards and sailors to historical figures like Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. However, Lyons has raised the alarm that years of exposure to the harsh coastal elements have taken a significant toll.
Darryn Lyons, a prominent local identity and former mayor, has publicly called for immediate action. He argues that the bollards are not just street furniture but are central to Geelong's character and visitor experience. "They are Geelong," Lyons stated, emphasising that allowing them to deteriorate is akin to neglecting the city's very soul and public art heritage.
Urgent Calls for Restoration and Maintenance
The issue highlights a broader concern about the maintenance of public assets. Lyons has pointed out that the restoration and upkeep of the bollards require a dedicated and consistent funding commitment from the responsible authorities, which includes the City of Greater Geelong council. The decay is seen as a failure to protect a culturally significant asset that drives tourism and local pride.
Observers note that without a proper conservation plan, the structural integrity and vibrant appearance of the bollards will continue to decline. This could lead to more extensive and costly repairs in the future or, in a worst-case scenario, the permanent loss of some figures. The community has historically shown strong attachment to the bollards, often rallying when individual figures are damaged or removed for maintenance.
What's at Stake for Geelong's Future?
The debate over the bollards' condition goes beyond simple upkeep. It touches on how Geelong values and presents its unique history and creativity to both residents and the thousands of visitors who stroll the waterfront each year. The bollards are a free, accessible, and family-friendly attraction that defines the city's playful and artistic spirit.
Lyons's warning serves as a catalyst for a necessary conversation about preserving Geelong's distinctive landmarks. The outcome will signal whether the city is willing to invest in the preservation of the features that make it stand out. Ensuring the longevity of the Baywalk Bollards is now framed as an essential investment in Geelong's cultural identity and tourism economy.
The call to action is clear: to prevent these iconic sentinels from being destroyed by time and neglect, a coordinated restoration effort must be prioritised. The future appearance of Geelong's celebrated waterfront may very well depend on the decisions made today.
