Boomerang Grandstand

Statement of Significance

The Boomerang Oval Grandstand has aesthetic, historic and social significance. It is an attractive example of a functional building being transformed into a community work of art.

Physical Description

The Boomerang Oval Grandstand is located on the western side of Boomerang Oval, located in Newman Drive in Newman. The Grandstand has a distinctive design, with each side constructed in the shape of two overlapping boomerangs. The concrete structure has a 4 tiered concrete platform as a base and a large protective canopy, angled in the shape of the boomerangs. The Grandstand became the venue for one of the mural projects undertaken late in 1995, and the back wall and the boomerangs have been decorated and painted with Aboriginal motifs and designs.

History

The Grandstand was originally brought to Newman and served as the dignitaries' stand on the occasion of the opening of the Mt. Whaleback Mine by the then Governor General of Australia, Sir Paul Hasluck, on 26 June 1969. It was later moved to the Boomerang Oval. In August 1995 it was one of the Newman locations selected to be part of a mural project. The artist and designer was Terry Thompson of Wickham. After the structure had been prepared with an undercoat, Thompson created the basic designs using a cherry picker.
Members of the local community, Newman school children and Aborigines from the Parnpajina Community assisted with the painting which took two weeks to complete. Local businesses also supported the project.
Other murals were carried out at the Recreation Centre, the Childrens Ward at the Hospital and the Pool.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.