New artwork for the Wollundry Lagoon Precinct

The Wollundry Lagoon Precinct has received some temporary additions to the already abundant native wildlife visitors with the installation of six larger-than-life bird sculptures.

Council has commissioned artist Tom Buckland to create a temporary public artwork named Flock to coincide with the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Destination and Visitor Economy Conference, being hosted by the city from 28-30 May, and the Wagga Comedy Fest from 6-10 June 2024.

Installed on Friday this week, the bird sculptures are made from recycled materials, and are located around the lagoon area. They can be viewed daily until Friday 14 June.

Council’s Cultural Officer Lauren Reynolds said the sculptures are an exciting and unique way to compliment the conference and the four-day Wagga Comedy Fest.

“Public art brings a combination of life, creativity and colour to our community,” Ms Reynolds said.

“These sculptures are especially fun because they will be in a new location each day. The birds will be tucked away safely of a night and will pop up the next morning in a different spot around the Wollundry Lagoon Cultural Precinct."

“I encourage everyone to visit more than once and see what new area the birds have discovered each day.

“It’s wonderful that we can activate the Wollundry Lagoon Cultural Precinct with Tom’s creations and open up discussions of how art and culture contribute significantly to the city’s visitor economy.”

Tom will also be delivering a make-your-own bird sculpture workshop to delegates at the conference, as well as two public workshops, both of which are now sold out.

“It's been a great opportunity to make these big birds for Wagga,” Mr Buckland said.

“They're all made with recycled materials - cardboard, newspaper, wood, steel and irrigation tube. They will hopefully bring lots of fun and energy with them and maybe inspire someone to make their own big birds. Thanks for the opportunity, Wagga!”

The LGNSW conference is recognised as the state’s leading tourism conference, attracting 180 industry and local government professionals.

This year, Wagga Wagga City Council has been selected as the lead destination host along with co-hosts Junee and Coolamon Councils.

The three-day event will be held at the Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre, bringing great recognition to our local area and its visitor economy sector.

Council’s Visitor Economy Development Officer Cassandra Farquharson says the conference is a hugely exciting opportunity for the city.

“The Visitor Economy and Events teams have been working closely with LGNSW on the development of the conference program,” Ms Farquharson said.

“We are grateful for this opportunity to collaborate with LGNSW and ensure a strong focus on our region’s key tourism assets, local businesses and producers.”

You can find the sculptures at the Wollundry Lagoon Cultural Precinct until Friday 14 June.