Engaging and elusive: Chris Anderson lands commission

STRATHBOGIE Shire Council is excited to announce the commissioning of two new public art sculptures for Euroa, following a robust and transparent selection process as part of the next stage of the Euroa Public Art Trail. The standout artwork - a bold 3.5-metre-tall platypus sculpture crafted from corten steel - will be installed in Seven Creeks Park, with a second, smaller platypus installed in Binney Street. Both pieces will be created by Kilmore-based artist Dr Chris Anderson, known for his award-winning wood and steel designs and his engineering expertise. The project was made possible by $50,000 in funding through the 2024–25 Pitch My Project initiative and is a partnership between the Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce, the Euroa Community Action Group (ECAG), and council. Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy said the new sculptures will add fresh character and charm to Euroa’s public spaces while responding directly to community input. “We’re thrilled to welcome these creative new additions to the heart of Euroa,” Cr Ewart-Kennedy said. “These sculptures are playful, engaging, and rooted in place - they bring the elusive platypus into the spotlight, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore and connect with our town in new ways. “Just as importantly, the selection process followed our adopted Public Art Policy from start to finish, ensuring that every proposal was assessed fairly and thoroughly by a panel of experts and community representatives.” The panel’s independent art specialist was Shepparton Art Museum curator Caroline Esbenshade who said the art trail was a ‘fantastic’ initiative. “I was happy to be involved,” Ms Esbenshade said. “The calibre of the applications was impressive, particularly in how responsive they were to community feedback. “Chris Anderson’s application stood out for its fun, engaging tone and how it would encourage visitors to be on the lookout for platypuses in the water, in the park, and down the main street. “Anderson’s proposed sculptures compliment the locations and the existing artworks, highlighting the region’s native fauna and creating an inviting atmosphere.” The commissioned works were chosen from ten strong proposals submitted by five experienced artists, with all submissions evaluated against criteria including safety, artistic merit, relevance to place, durability, and maintenance. The giant platypus, set to emerge from the natural beauty of Seven Creeks Park, and its smaller companion in the town centre will create a sense of movement and connection across Euroa. Installation of both sculptures is expected to be completed later this year.

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