Ocean Grove sculptor Don Walters has been chosen to design and create a permanent road trauma memorial at Geelong waterfront.
Mr Walters’ concept ‘Solace’ will depict the different phases of the moon to reflect the changing emotions of those who have experienced loss through road trauma.
“The phases of the moon reflected the phases of grief,” he said.
“It’s a memorial where you go and reflect and pay homage.
“It’s an acknowledgement that road trauma exists.”
The memorial, which will be located off Hearne Parade, is hoped to be completed by Easter next year, Mr Walters said.
Mr Walters will now work with council to construct the sculpture, which will overlook Corio Bay.
“I went to the site one evening and there was a full moon shining over Corio Bay and that’s when the idea came,” he said.
“I always go to the site to get a feel for what is happening.
“Sometimes the site can almost tell you what to do.”
The Transport Accident Commission has partnered with the City of Greater Geelong to deliver the road trauma memorial project with support from RTSSV and UCAVT.
The City will also carry out landscaping works, such as planting and shading, to the surrounding area to create a space with all-abilities access.
Mr Walters said public reaction to the memorial had been “very positive”.
“I think the idea of the phases of the moon has a universal quality and it’s not about people, it’s not trying to make it a figurative object, it’s about something grander,” he said.
“There are a lot of analogies you can draw, but the moon is a constant companion and it’s like when people have passed, it’s still there.”
Mr Walters has been an artist for most of his working life.
He grew up in Ocean Grove, but spent a decade in Fremantle before returning home.
Mr Walters, like most, has been affected by road trauma.
“When you hear the words ‘road trauma’ you don’t really think about it, but when you reflect on it is part of you,” he said.
“It (the sculpture) should be beautiful and restful and embody quite a few things hopefully.”
