King Neptune Sculpture

Statement of Significance

King Neptune sculpture is of historic significance representing the development of Two Rocks in
particular the Atlantis Marine Park (fmr). It is of historic value as the most prominent example of Mark
Le Buse's sculptures in Two Rocks. It has aesthetic and social significance and a landmark quality to
the local community of Two Rocks as evidenced by the Two Rocks Residents Association's interest in
the sculpture.

Physical Description

The sculpture of King Neptune faces west towards the Indian Ocean and is sited high above the
Atlantis Marine Park (fmr) entrance and is a landmark in the Two Rocks area.The scultpure is
approximately 10 metres high and was constructed over a steel framed using concrete and
limestone.There was originally a door at the base of the sculpture for internal access however in 2004
this was no longer extant.

History

The Atlantis Marine Park (fmr) site included a series of pools, aquariums, theatre, stadium, crazy golf
course, trampoline park, a playground and landscaping. A feature of the park was the 10mtre
sculpture of King Neptune which was designed by local artist Mark Le Buse. Le Buse was also
contracted to construct a number other prominent sculptures of celebrities and animals.
The opening of the park was held on 26 December 1981 and by 1982 over one million visitors went
through the gates. In 1983 Atlantis Marine Park was awarded the Sir David Tourism for Tourism and a
Marketing excellence award.
The park closed in 1990 due to less visitors and requirements of larger pools for the dolphins
therefore the place became no longer feasible.
In Roman Mythology 'Neptune' is known as the 'god of the Sea' (identified with as 'Poseidon' from
Greek Mythology). Like Poseidon, he was also the god of earthquakes and horses. Neptune is
believed to have power over the sea and seafarers and married the sea nymph Amphitrite. He is
usually shown as a bearded man holding a trident and standing in a shell chariot being drawn over the
sea by dolphins.
The Two Rocks, Yanchep Residents Association, a group which has a keen interest in local history
have particular interest in the King Neptune sculpture.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

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