The serene beauty of Lake Macquarie was marred by a heartless act of theft that has left the community in shock. The intricate bronze artwork, a tribute to the Aboriginal heritage of the area, was callously stolen from Belmont over the weekend.
Crafted by artists Julie Squires, Shellie Smith, and Daniella Chedzy, the bronze cast of an Aboriginal stringybark canoe was a central piece of the ‘Gunyah and Canoe’ installation along Lake Macquarie City Council’s Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track project. The sculpture, a symbolic representation of the Awabakal people’s connection to the land, featured intricate details including casts of flathead fish, fish-hooks, and twine.
Council Deputy CEO Tony Farrell expressed deep dismay over the theft, emphasizing the significant cultural value of the artwork to both the Aboriginal community and the wider public. The bronze sculpture, despite extensive anti-theft measures during its installation, was brazenly cut through by the thieves.
Artist Julie Squires, with over 30 years of experience in bronze sculpting, lamented the loss, highlighting the meticulous effort that went into creating the artwork and the disbelief that such a theft could occur. The painstaking process of crafting the sculpture to ensure its integrity and authenticity adds to the tragedy of its disappearance.
The Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO, Carol Proctor, echoed the sentiments of the community, expressing disappointment and disapproval at the disrespect shown towards a culturally significant piece of art. The theft has not only deprived the community of a cherished symbol but has also desecrated a site of historical and cultural importance.
As investigations unfold to unravel the mystery behind the theft, the community is urged to come forward with any information that may assist in the recovery of the stolen artwork. The loss of the bronze canoe has not only robbed Lake Macquarie of a tangible link to its indigenous heritage but has also cast a shadow over the shared history of the land.
The brazen act of theft serves as a stark reminder of the need to protect and preserve cultural artifacts that hold immense value for the community. The void left by the stolen bronze canoe stands as a somber testament to the importance of safeguarding and honoring the rich heritage of Lake Macquarie for generations to come.
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