Pulford silo idea to celebrate pioneer

Victorian Minister Jaala Pulford believes longtime community advocate, the late Ella Ebery, would be an ideal subject for a silo mural in St Arnaud.

Ms Pulford’s idea comes after she paid tribute to Ms Ebery in State Parliament earlier this year.

Ms Ebery established a reputation for powerful and award-winning editorial comment pieces during her many years as editor of North Central News.

She retired at 97 and died in May aged 103.

Ms Pulford said the St Arnaud

community loved Ms Ebery and a silo mural would be fitting recognition of her legacy.

“I really like the idea of having one of the St Arnaud silos painted with Ella’s image where she will be remembered by current and future generations,” she said.

“Ella was one of the most significant rural women Victoria has ever seen and I think it would be great to find a way of celebrating her life and remember her enduring legacy.

“The Silo Arts Trail has become a very popular attraction for tourists in western Victoria and I think the St Arnaud silos would be a perfect canvas to remember Ella’s standing and achievements.”

Ms Ebery, a recipient of the Country Press Shakespeare Family Award for excellence

“Ella was one of the most significant rural women Victoria has ever seen and I think it would be great to find a way of celebrating her life and remember her enduring legacy” – Jaala Pulford

in editorial writing, was also St Arnaud mayor for two years.

“Ella was a true pioneer, a voice for her local community,” Ms Pulford said.

“She is the epitome of inspiring and I think she needs to be remembered in a big way.

“I would love to get feedback from the community on ways we can remember Ella and honour her legacy.”

Ms Pulford encouraged people to provide feedback by calling her office on 5332 2405, emailing jaala.pulford@ parliament.vic.gov.au or by post to 211 Dana Street, Ballarat Central, 3350.