Save the hooded plover mural

In 2018, the Festival of Glass committee and its 'parent' the Drysdale and Clifton Springs Community Association Inc.* with input from the local community created a glass and ceramic “Save the Hooded Plover” mural.

• Suma Park railway station is the new, permanent home of the “Save the Hooded Plover” mosaic, delighting passengers on the Bellarine Railway, walkers and cyclists on the Rail Trail between Drysdale and Queenscliff and the whole community.

• The “Save the Hooded Plover” mosaic is intended to raise awareness of the plight of the endangered Hooded Plover. These birds nest on beaches, and their nests and fledglings are heavily disguised to protect them from predators. Unfortunately, this means that they are frequent – unintended - victims of beach-going crowds.

• Visitors to the 2019 Festival of Glass Expo helped to create the mosaic, using materials sponsored by Bunnings. It’s now on display at the Suma Park station, which also features a rest area/facilities, picnic table and gardens to enjoy.

• The “Save the Plover” mosaic is part of the ongoing local Glass Trail - a Festival of Glass project. Further information about the Glass Trail can be found at www.festivalofglass.net.au.

(Subsequently, DCSCA has changed its name to the Drysdale, Clifton Springs Curlewis Association Inc. and the Festival of Glass has become an independent Incorporated Association.)

Partners

DCSCA collaborated with several people to design and create the mural:

• Community members who attended the 2018 Festival of Glass Expo.

• Bunnings (Leopold) who provided the materials and supported community members to participate in the project at the 2018 Festival of Glass Expo.

• Geelong Steam Preservation Society.

• Bellarine Catchment Network.