By Ann marieAngebrandt
HEARTLESS vandals hacked a metal bird from atop a $24,000 sculpture at the Altona Coastal Park last weekend.
The four metre-high stainless steel work Requiem for a Champion was commissioned by Hobsons Bay City Council to commemorate the location of the former Williamstown racecourse.
Hobsons Bay cultural collections officer Tania Blackwell said she was disappointed someone would attack the city’s latest public artwork, which was installed only a few weeks ago.
“It is clear that someone has used a very tall ladder and a hacksaw to cut through the legs of the bird in a concerted effort to remove it,” she said.
Ms Blackwell said if the figure of the metal red-neck stint bird was safely returned, it could be reattached to its former position above a galloping bronze horse.
“The bird is an integral part of the art work, representing the environment in which it is located,” she said.
Artist Yvonne George designed the work to highlight the cultural and historical significance of the site.
The Williamstown racecourse was one of Victoria’s early premier race venues, hosting many equestrian greats, including Phar Lap.
The vandalised artwork is part of a series of sculptures along the Bay Trail.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
