The iconic Kirra Eagle has officially landed back on the Gold Coast. Locals, who affectionately refer to the sculpture as the “rusty chook,” can now see the artwork reinstalled at its original home in R T Peak Memorial Park on Kirra Hill.
The beloved sea eagle spent the last month stored at a secure City of Gold Coast depot. Taking in the weather Before it took its final perch, the sculpture underwent treatment to develop a protective layer of rust on its weathering steel.
Originally created by the late local artist Craig Medson and installed in October 1983, the piece is a public artwork of historical significance. It was removed in 2021 during the Kirra Hill renovation after being deemed structurally unsafe. Following an Expressions of Interest process in 2023, artist Tobias Bennett was selected to reproduce the sculpture, with ARTPark managing the reproduction process.
.Division 14 Councillor Gail O’Neill expressed enthusiasm for the artwork’s homecoming.
“We know that residents will be extremely excited to see the return of this much-loved sculpture that has become a symbol of the Kirra community over decades,” Councillor O’Neill said.
“While we acknowledge the time this process has taken, it’s important to point out that it was a complex job for the artist,” she added. “He has done a fantastic job and worked tirelessly to make sure his replica was completed to the highest and most accurate standard.”
