Stories of signs and sculptures

MEREDITH History Interest Group president Margaret Cooper has released a new book.

The idea for Foundation Stones, Plaques, Sculptures & Signs of Meredith was born from the many photos Cooper had accumulated of interesting landmarks in the district; plaques on bridges, rocks, and writing on stones.

“The book starts with foundation stones; some we can find and others we can’t. There are records in newspapers of the laying of foundation stones, like Goslings Hotel in 1853, but the building’s now gone, and we haven’t found the stone,” she said.

“The one at the Shire Hall was unveiled with much pomp and ceremony, and we’ve never found that one either.”

Outdoor signs, sculptures, and tablets on buildings, stands or rocks are explored, including a 1951 cairn recognising Steiglitz’ pioneers.

Also mentioned is the Path of the Ibis at Meredith, the Woodburn Creek State School and Larundel soldier settler plaques on rocks, the Bamganie World War One soldiers’ sign, the Woodburn Hill sculpture recognising the original school, the metal merino ram at the Moranghurk soldier settlers’ memorial, and the “magnificent” Bunjil the eagle lookout in Maude.

The “quirky” cover of Cooper’s book features a plaque near the Lethbridge lake which has lost its writing to erosion, and is now only a “rusty piece of metal.”

“If the grass was long and you were walking through, it would be something to trip over. It’s just completely gone. We put the title of the book on the blank sign,” she said.

Documenting history is Cooper’s passion. She said those who create and install foundation stones, plaques, sculptures, and signs are just as passionate about keeping the heritage of communities’ alive.

“These people considered it important enough to put it there as a lasting memorial, so it’s important people know they’re there, recognise them and the history behind them,” she said.

Cooper has written and released about 10 books covering history in the district, spotlighting Dinkum Dunnies, Bamganie soldiers, Moranghurk soldier settlers, Woodburn Creek, and more along the way.

Copies of the new book can be purchased for $20 from the Meredith History Interest Group, or the Meredith History Centre. Cooper’s flier on The Seven Wonders of Meredith and District is also accessible.