Cyclone Tracy monument responsibility given to Australasian company Phil Price Sculpture

Along the shoreline where Cyclone Tracy touched Darwin’s shores, a new monument dedicated to victims of Cyclone Tracy will be erected. See the design.

Fannie Bay will be location of the Cyclone Tracy monument. Picture: City of Darwin.

Along the shoreline of Bundilla Beach, a new monument dedicated to victims of Cyclone Tracy will be erected.

On Friday, City of Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis announced Australasian company Phil Price Sculpture had been commissioned to deliver project that would provide a space “for collective grieving”.

To be located at Bundilla Beach, Fannie Bay, Mr Vatskalis said the “meaningful” sculpture was to be delivered in line with 50th year anniversary of when the cyclone hit the Top End.

“The Cyclone Tracy commemoration monument aims to recognise the effects this devastating event had on our community in a meaningful and permanent way,” he said.

“The monument will offer a focal point for solace, solidarity and communal reflection and provide a space for collective grieving, remembrance, and healing.”

Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis. Picture: Alex Treacy

It was revealed the project was expected to cost $700,000, which would also cover the landscaping of the surrounding area.

Solomon MP Luke Gosling said the Albanese government had made a considerable contribution to the monument.

“I’ve worked closely with the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government to ensure a Federal Government contribution of $300,000 to help deliver a permanent monument at Bundilla Beach to mark the 50th Anniversary of Cyclone Tracy,” he said.

“Darwin will have a dedicated space to mark this chapter in our history where survivors and their families can visit to remember, reflect and heal and where visitors and new Territorians can learn more about this tragedy and pay their respects.”

Pictured is New Zealander Phil Price at McClelland Sculpture Park in Langwarrin, who is the artist who created Crysalid that won the people's choice award in the biannual sculpture award. Picture: Derrick den Hollander

Due to the monument’s proposed location, the design will be made of materials that can withstand the harsh coastal climate.

Phil Price, known for his unique, wind activated sculptures, said he had a vision to deliver “something very special”.

“It’s a very special privilege to be asked to design and build a wind activated kinetic sculpture to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy.

“It is my hope to bring joy, something very special and memorable to City of Darwin and its visitors later this year.”