Shiverme Timbers…what happened to our Bunya Pines?

Published on 17 February 2016

Ever wondered what happened to the timber felled during Cyclone Marcia?

Join local artist and wood worker Peter Talbot at the Botanic Gardens on Saturday 20 February as he creates an installation from pieces of the majestic Bunya Pine felled during Cyclone Marcia. 

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said it was astounding what could come out of such devastation.

“Fourteen of our heritage listed trees from our majestic Bunya Pine Avenue at the Botanic Gardens were totally destroyed after standing for 142 years; it was a significant loss for one of Australia’s best regional gardens and for our community,” Mayor Strelow said. 

“It’s such a joy to see our creative and talented artisans working meticulously and making something meaningful and memorable from one of our worst natural disasters.

“Peter will make a tessellating pattern of geometric shapes to form the patch work quilt, which will lay in situe alongside one of our popular walkways at the Gardens.”  

He has also been commissioned to create a permanent art work from the timber once it has been dried and seasoned.

Other wood-related activities during the day include Art on Bark in the Park workshops working with local artists Patty Dunn and Ainslie McMahon to decorate sheets of Caribbean Pine bark, also felled during Cyclone Marcia. 

“We’d love people of all ages to get creative and try their hand at the free workshop, and hopefully design something that’s meaningful to them too,” Mayor Strelow said.

Both projects have been funded by the Regional Art Development Fund. The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Rockhampton Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

 What: Celebrate our Botanic Gardens – What a difference a year makes!
When: Saturday 20 February 2016
Time: 10am – 3.30pm Wood Quilt Installation
          11am – 1pm Art on Bark in the Park

For details on the free sausage sizzle, entertainment and activities please see below.