Kirra Hill Eagle: Council reviewing plans to restore iconic ‘Rusty Chook’
An iconic city landmark - considered for a $500,000 repair job – has been removed from its perch. WHERE IT’S GONE >>>
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THE iconic Kirra Eagle or “Rusty Chook” statue overlooking one of the city’s famed surf breaks, which was facing a $500,000 repair job, is no longer on display – for now.
Gold Coast City Council confirmed this week the famed artwork had been removed from its perch at RT Peak Memorial Park on Kirra Hill in recent months to undertake restoration.
The decision to remove the landmark came after experts deemed it unsafe to be displayed in public due to gradual decay. Restorative works will mean it can remain in place without an exclusion zone for at least 10 years.
If the task is feasible and value for money, works will be undertaken and the sculpture eventually reinstalled on Kirra Hill in 2022 but that decision is yet to be made.
A Gold Coast City Council spokesman said: “The city is currently in the process of evaluating offers received through an expression of interest process to renew the Kirra eagle.”
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The Bulletin revealed last November councillors had voted unanimously to save the eagle, installed on Kirra Hill in October 1983, after considering an option that would have cost taxpayers up to $500,000.
Councillors instead voted to find a “steel restoration company” to renew the sculpture, with the search to be paid for by funds set aside for a Kirra Hill memorial plaque.
Restoration efforts are only part of the work being undertaken at the lookout. It has been closed to the public since March and is expected re-open by the end of September.
The GCCC website stated works would improve the “recreational value of the site and allow greater enjoyment of the views of the World Surfing Reserve, hinterland and city skyline.”
“R T Peak Memorial Park contains a number of assets which have reached the end of their useful life,” it said.
A new lookout platform, footpaths and picnic area are being provided.
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