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By Kath Gannaway
More than 50 people met to put forward their ideas following the innovative campaign by Community 3777 to get people thinking about what type of installation – sign or art-piece – would best welcome people to the town.
The group’s Hollywood-style ‘HEALESVILLE’ sign got people talking and school and community workshops with motivational speaker Peter Kenyon inspired some great concepts.
3777 spokesperson Kath Holton said the committee, which has representatives from various interest groups covering history, viticulture, commerce, timber and the broader community, was thrilled with the response.
“We were very excited by the numbers, but also by people’s creativity,” she said.
“Certain themes came through; the platypus and eagle were very strong, and we had said we wanted to do something to recognise the Indigenous heritage with the words “Womin Je Ka” meaning ‘Welcome’ in the Wurundjeri language,” she said. The mountains and rivers also featured prominently and Ms Holton said there had been quite a bit of enthusiasm for retaining the “Hollyville” sign.
“There has been such an amazing reaction; just the word “HEALESVILLE” has really engaged people and got them feeling proud of their community,” she said.
From the more than 80 ideas presented, the committee will pull together three concepts that will then be put to the community vote.
For details phone Ms Holton on 5962 1033 or 0438 171 776.