Community built on our legends
High achievers in all fields should be celebrated, writes Nick Cracknell
MORE than two years ago I thought it was time that Peter Hudson was acknowledged for his achievements in football because I strongly believe that legends from all fields should be remembered by their local communities.
I approached the Derwent Valley Council with the proposition and received in principle support for the project. With the assistance of Leon Kemp, we commenced the difficult task of raising the $ 65,000 required for a statue of Huddo to be erected in New Norfolk’s Arthur Square. Thanks to support from the Tasmanian government, Hawthorn Football
Club, local businesses and football supporters from around the country, this was achieved and the sculpture is ready to be erected.
Arthur Square was chosen for the site because it was actually commissioned during the official planning of New Norfolk as the Village Green. It was known as Georges Square until 1863 when the crown gifted this public space to the local authorities and it was given its present name.
The green open town space was the venue for all manner of activities, ranging from militia drills to cricket matches, football matches and an annual highlight in May, a huge bonfire. There is a long history of sporting activities in Arthur Square which will be mentioned on the interpretative signage surrounding the sculpture.
A community’s history instils a sense of pride, belonging and affection in its residents. The stories that once connected communities are dwindling away to nothing more than distant memories. We should ensure community spirit and stories are never lost.
For tourists, local legends help to relay the spirit that makes a region unique. In the digital age we now live in, with photo- sharing being a prevalent phenomenon, this project will give our local legend the visibility deserved and the opportunity to be shared by our community to the outside world. Hopefully other community members will be encouraged to acknowledge others that we must remember in our district.
The Square’s proximity to the town centre, the presence of a toilet block and abundant carparking means it is a popular place for tourists to stop. It is used for picnics and recreation by local members of
the community.
It should also be noted the artists commissioned to do the sculpture, Gillie and Marc, are extraordinary public artists. Their works are in major galleries and cities around the world, including New York, London, Singapore, Sydney and many more.
We want to bring legends to life, so that stories that created a community are never lost. Communities are built on their legends. Each and every city, town and village is underpinned by its own rich history, cultivated by the contributions of inspirational figures worth remembering.
Let’s make this the beginning of what could become a major attraction for the Derwent Valley.