Red gums revived for artwork

THE REMAINS of once-majestic River Red Gum trees will be transformed into artworks.
The City of Greater Dandenong council said as many as 18 River Red Gums were felled to clear space for the Eastlink tollway’s construction.
The timber, which also includes Algerian Oak that once stood before an 1860s homestead in Oakwood Park Estate in Dandenong, will be turned into art next year. The timber has been milled and stored for use at the Oakwood Park site and surrounds. It will be utilised in sculptural works, public seating, interpretive signage and other treatments there and in other public spaces.
Mayor Youhorn Chea said the timber had the capacity to be creatively used to retell stories, activate dialogue and contribute in meaningful ways to the activities of public spaces.
“By creating new items out of the timber, we witness the rebirth of the majestic River Red Gums and Algerian Oak,” Cr Chea said.
“It is important we remember their presence in Greater Dandenong, as they were the silent witnesses to our region’s colourful history.”