mmg.com.au

Regular travellers to Tongala will have noticed two of the town’s entrances have been reinvented.

Images of a man on horseback and some sports players have been located at the town’s south entrance on Henderson Rd and at the east entrance on Finlay Rd.

Artist Velislav Georgiev designed and constructed the features after winning a competition hosted by the community.

Campaspe Shire acting strategy executive manager Andrew Cowin said the features aimed to represent the uniqueness of Tongala by reflecting the historical importance of the light horse regiment to the Tongala community, as well as the importance of strong sporting teams and activities, ‘‘both of which reflect the courage and determination of the community past and present’’.

A third feature at the town’s third entrance was initially proposed as part of the project, but only two could be constructed within the allocated budget.

‘‘Once concept plans were completed and following discussions with the community group and options available, it was agreed to construct two features, which allowed for increased height, therefore greater impact, achieving the desired outcome of the project,’’ Campaspe Shire spokesperson Sandy Ennis said.

The project has been funded by Campaspe Shire, through Town Entrance Implementation Funding and Community Plan Implementation Funding, at a total cost of $50,000.

The project in Tongala was initiated by the community with the key partners being the Tongala Community Planning Group, Tongala Chamber, Tongala Youth Action Group, Tongala Landcare and the Tongala Community Activities Centre Management Committee.