A reward of AU$15,000 is on offer for the return of a trophy stolen from the Tasmanian Wool Centre in Ross last month.
The Ermenegildo Zegna Perpetual Trophy was reportedly stolen from the Tasmanian Wool Centre overnight on Friday 5 December. It has been on loan to the wool centre from the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) since 2013.
City of Launceston CEO Sam Johnson said the theft of such a significant and unique piece of Tasmania's cultural heritage was extremely disappointing.
"As part of the QVMAG collection, this precious item belongs to the Northern Tasmanian community," Mr Johnson said.
"We appreciate the continued efforts of Tasmania Police to investigate the theft and sincerely hope this reward will lead to the trophy's return."
The prestigious Ermenegildo Zegna Perpetual Trophy was introduced in 1963 and has become a prestigious award at the Midland Agricultural Association Show, Campbell Town.
The sculpture was created by nationally renowned Tasmanian artist Stephen Walker (1927-2014). Its design features a merino sheep crafted from 24-carat gold, evoking the idea of the golden fleece, set within a representation of a weaving loom made of silver and platinum, mounted on a serpentine base.
Julian von Bibra, a well-known committed Midlands wool grower with a long family connection to the Tasmanian Wool Centre, said the significance of this sculpture to the wool industry in Tasmania, Australia and globally cannot be overestimated.
"The trophy is an irreplaceable piece of our industry's history and we're grateful someone has come forward to offer a reward to assist police efforts to recover it."
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444.
Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au
Image: Waverley Woollen Mills. Credit: S Group
