Matthew Flinders News Article

Augusta-Margaret River Times

REBECCA PARISH Augusta-Margaret River Times January 6, 2014, 12:43 pm

…  Plans are underway for a 20-metre tall memorial to honour Matthew Flinders at the new Augusta boat harbour.

Costs for the proposed monument were initially estimated at $1.8 million.

Augusta Community Resource Centre co-ordinator Russell Simpson had the initial idea for the project three years ago.

Since then, Mr Simpson said he wanted to see something permanent and iconic for the area.

“Matthew Flinders was one of the greatest navigators that ever lived, ” he said. “We’re not paying respect yet for what he did for the area.”

The concept designs for the memorial were created by Smiths Sculptors who had designed and created historical monuments including the National Memorial to the Australian Army in Canberra, and the HMAS Sydney II memorial in Geraldton. Smith Sculptors’ Charles Smith and Joan Walsh-Smith also bought several journals of Matthew Flinders from the WA Government before developing the concept with Mr Simpson.

Augusta Chamber of Commerce president Doug Thompson said the concept designs were magnificent and he believes the project will get off the ground.

“I have lots of confidence in it and the people behind it, ” he said.

“As far as Augusta and the South West go, I believe it will be a great project.”

The project has received support from organisations including the South West Development Commission and the concept is awaiting approvals from the Department of Transport.

Mr Simpson said Terry Redman, Nola Marino, Barry House and Colin Holt had all been briefed on the project. “Its all going to start happening soon so we’re getting very excited about the prospect, ” said Mrs Walsh-Smith.

Mr Simpson said he was happy to have Smith Sculptors working on the project as they were “the best in the business”.

Concept designs include the use of solar-powered lighting and various stories about Flinders from his journals will be etched into the marine-grade stainless steel.

The detailed concept designs for the memorial are shown in the Augusta Community Resource Centre and Mr Simpson said those who have seen the designs, have liked it.

“It’s early days yet and we are looking forward to 2014 and taking it further, ” he said.

Matthew Flinders was one of the greatest navigators that ever lived. We’re not paying respect yet for what he did for the area. Russell Simpson

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