Frank honoured in bronze

A PROMINENT figure in Geelong’s history has been immortalised following the unveiling of a specially made sculpture located on the corner of Ryrie and Moorabool streets.

Late businessman, former president of the Geelong Football Club, and advocate for Geelong Frank Costa was honoured for his contributions to the region at the official opening of the statue on Wednesday last week.

The sculpture represents Costa as a 13-year-old newsboy outside the T&G Building, where he sold newspapers and sub-contracted other paperboys.

The statue explores a number of unifying themes evident in his life, including his ties to the Greater Geelong community, his connection to football by holding The Herald front page from Geelong’s 1951 Grand Final victory over Essendon, and his links to the Costa Group.

Led by City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan, the ceremony’s attendees included Mr Costa’s wife Shirley and brother Robert Costa, former Geelong Cats skipper Joel Selwood, and sculptor Louis Laumen, as well as the extended Costa family.

Cr Sullivan said the bronze sculpture was a true reflection of an iconic Geelong figure.

“Frank’s passing two years ago remains a massive loss to our community because of his incredible advocacy and contributions to make our region the best it can be.

“He is known as a legend in these parts and it’s only fitting that we celebrate his values and achievements through a bronze statue.”

Frank’s daughter Gillian has worked on the project since Villawood Executive director Rory Costelloe came up with the initial concept.

Ms Costa said she was honoured to be involved in the project.

“The T&G corner is where Dad began his entrepreneurial journey, so this statue is not only a lovely way to remember him and the big part he played in Geelong as an employer, visionary and champion of growth, it also illustrates a moment of Geelong’s past in such a lovely way that residents and visitors alike can relate to and enjoy.”

355-gamer for Geelong and Cats legend Joel Selwood also paid homage to one of the club’s most influential figures.

“Frank would light up a room when he walked in, and this sculpture is a nice reminder for the entire community of just how impactful Frank was,” he said.

“An iconic figure in the region and at the Football Club, Frank was always a community leader. This statue reminds us of the belief and contribution he made to Geelong.”

The statue cost $100,000 to fabricate and install.