Visitors to Lake Broadwater will be able to immerse themselves in the region's newest sculpture trail designed by acclaimed metal sculptor Fred Beel.
Inspired by sketches from Dalby State School and Our Lady of the Southern Cross College students and commissioned by Western Downs Regional Council, the six new metal sculptures celebrate the natural beauty and serenity of Lake Broadwater.
Funded through the Council's Capital Expenditure public art project series, the remarkable new sculpture trail was unveiled at a special community celebration at Lake Broadwater on Saturday, which included face painting, coffee and a free barbecue.
Council spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Cr Peter Saxelby said the six new sculptures, which were named by local school students and the lake's caretakers, celebrate the coming together of nature and creativity in one of the region's most beloved natural environments.
"These latest sculptures add meaning and connection through a series of interactive pieces that provides a point of attraction for visitors," Cr Saxelby said.
"There are six sculptures titled 'Stacks On,' featuring native animals in an imaginative world standing on top of each another.
"Fred Beel's Stacks On series is a reminder that embracing different perspectives can lift us all up and offer a clearer vision of what's possible."
Cr Saxelby said the new Lake Broadwater sculpture trail offers visitors and locals another exciting stop along the Western Downs sculpture trail, which incorporates unique landmark sculptures in Jandowae, Dalby, and Miles.
'The artwork forms part of Council's 10-year capital expenditure program to develop a 600km self-drive sculpture trail across the Western Downs, designed to boost tourism and showcase the region's rich artistic and cultural identity.
"Highlights along the sculpture trail include the two-metre Dingo in Jandowae, the Future Visions in Dalby's Anderson Park, and the metal Murray Cods in Miles.
"These latest sculptures in Lake Broadwater reflect the region's commitment to making art and culture accessible to all.
"Lake Broadwater is a cherished natural asset for our community and Council is proud to support public art that inspires curiosity, complements our landscape, and brings people together," he said.
