‘Larger-than-life’: Frank Costa AO to be immortalised with statue in central Geelong

The “larger-than-life” Frank Costa AO will be immortalised with a bronze statue in central Geelong, two years after the King of Geelong’s passing.

The legendary Frank Costa will be immortalised in bronze in central Geelong. Picture: Glenn Ferguson

The legendary Frank Costa, a giant in Geelong’s business, sport and social scene, will be immortalised with a bronze statue in the region’s centre.

Mr Costa’s life and achievements – including his philanthropy, long-time Geelong Football Club presidency, and significant business endeavours – would be publicly recognised with the permanent fixture.

Mr Costa died on May 2, 2021 aged 83.

The City of Greater Geelong council has partnered with Mr Costa’s family – including wife Shirley and brother Robert – and the Cats to make the memorial a reality.

The $100,000 statue was suggested by Geelong Authority member Rory Costelloe.

Australian artist and sculptor Louis Laumen is creating the artwork based on a vision to memorialise him as a “paper boy” in a nod to Mr Costa’s time selling newspapers as a child.

Frank Costa and former Cats skipper Joel Selwood in 2015. Picture: Justine Walker/AFL Media

Shirley, Robert and the extended Costa family said they were delighted to support the testimonial to Mr Costa depicting where his story began.

“We were humbled by Rory’s suggestion to capture the moment when a young Frank, full of enthusiasm, started his love of Geelong and the opportunities he found within it,” they said.

“We believe it would mean a lot to him – it certainly does to us and hopefully to many others who got swept up in his endless world of possibilities.”

The statue will hold a copy of the Geelong Advertiser reporting Geelong’s 1951 premiership victory.

Frank Costa at Geelong Covent Garden early 1950s.

The 2.2m-tall memorial will be installed on the northeast corner of Ryrie and Moorabool streets, where Mr Costa once sold papers.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said Mr Costa was a “larger-than-life” figure with a generosity of spirit who lived his life in service and cared greatly about Geelong residents’ welfare.

“A remarkable businessman, mentor and advocate, Frank’s work will have a positive impact on our region for generations to come,” he said.

“This public artwork will not only illustrate the many facets of Frank’s life but create a space to reflect on and learn about his contributions and spark inspiration to help others.”

Former Geelong skipper Joel Selwood said Mr Costa was an “iconic figure” in the region with a generous, authentic and fierce advocacy for the community.

“He was a remarkable person and will always hold a special place in my heart, as he would by everybody who he came into contact with,” he said.

“One of the best things about coming to the footy club everyday was the stability of the place and without Frank, that would never have happened.

“Frank believed in Geelong when few did, and I’m honoured to represent the club to acknowledge all that Frank contributed, in making this town what it is today.”

The statue is anticipated to be unveiled in mid-2023, soon after the second anniversary of Mr Costa’s death.

Originally published as ‘Larger-than-life’: Frank Costa AO to be immortalised with statue in central Geelong