MOUNT Gambier City Council has considered options to transform the giant stump that was once the largest tree in the Cave Gardens precinct.
The stump could be carved into a public art piece if council resolves to seek expressions of interest from local artists.
The 20m high Claret Ash tree was split in two during extreme winds in late March, with only the trunk of the 80-year-old tree left standing.
Council’s operational standing committee this week voted in favour of transforming the stump into a carved sculpture following a tender process and community consultation.
“We engaged Anthony “Ant” Martin from Ants Redgum Gallery in Millicent to investigate whether the remainder of the tree trunk could be used to create a sculpture,” engineering technical officer Sinaway Georgiou said.
“After an on-site inspection, Anthony concluded approximately 2m of the trunk of the tree could be used for sculpting.
“Depending on what is to be sculpted and the size of the sculpture, the initial cost estimate is $18,000 for a finished product using the remainder of the tree trunk.”
Ongoing maintenance of the sculpture would cost approximately $1000 every two to three years.
The operating committee was presented with a second option to turn the remaining wood into park furniture, but unanimously voted to create a public art work.
Council will consider the motion to begin a tender process at its full meeting next week.
If the decision goes ahead, council will seek expressions of interest from local artists and engage heritage adviser Richard Woods to determine a short list of possible projects.
Council will seek feedback from the community following the tender process.
