Tuesday, 28 July 2026

 Bev McARTHUR (Western Victoria) presented a petition bearing 1975 signatures:

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the current removal from public display the Harold Freedman OAM’s Geelong regional history mosaic mural at 30 Little Malop Street, Geelong. The mural has been hidden by an opaque screen for the last 15 months. The heritage listed mural is the second largest after the Australian War Memorial mural. Created during Harold Freedman’s tenure as the Official State Artist of Victoria, it’s the only work of its kind incorporated into a government building. The mosaic took many talented artists three years to complete. The distinguished Scientist and Historian, Dr Roy Lang, oversaw the content. No one has ever contested the historical accuracy or integrity of the work. It traces a cavalcade of people and important events in the Geelong region and Western District. It is visual history and aimed to be as inclusive as possible. It has an immediacy not possible with other mediums and speaks directly to all who have the opportunity to view it. It is an iconic and much loved unique work of art serving as a tourist magnet and educational asset for the people of Victoria and tourists to Geelong.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to return the Harold Freedman Geelong regional history mosaic mural to unimpeded public display as soon as possible.