Landmarks light up for state tribute

GEELONG’S City Hall will turn pink this evening in a tribute to an Australian cultural icon.

Dame Olivia Newton-John is being farewelled at a state funeral this afternoon in Melbourne, with the historic Geelong building to be projected with pink light in a tribute to the British-Australian singer, actress and activist.

The colour pink is used to raise awareness of breast and gynaecological cancers.

Newton-John died in August last year following a three-decade battle with breast cancer.

Following her distinguished performing career, Newton-John earned acclaim and humanitarian awards for her work supporting research and treatment for sufferers of women’s cancers, and was a passionate advocate for the environment and animal rights.

Projection artist Matt Bonner will turn City Hall’s Gheringhap Street facade pink, displaying Dame Newton-John’s name and dates of birth and death.

Other landmarks including catenary lights at the intersection of Malop and Moorabool Streets, Little Malop Central festoons, Central Geelong and Waterfront smart pole beacon lights and Waterfront palm tree lights will also turn pink.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said tonight’s event would honour her long list of achievements.

“The Greater Geelong community has been touched by Olivia’s talent and warmth through her musical and acting pursuits,” he said.

“Her compassion and drive to help those with cancer through both the Olivia Newton-John Foundation and Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre deeply resonated with our residents.”

“Olivia was an icon and inspiration, and we are proud to call her Australian.”

The State Memorial service is today at Hamer Hall, Melbourne from 4pm, with Channel 7, Channel 9 and the ABC all broadcasting the service.

Geelong’s City Hall tribute begins from 8.30pm.

Dame Newton-John’s family has requested that memorial tributes be made in the form of donations to the Wellness Programs at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre: onjcancercentre.org/donate