Meeting With Sculptor Peter Corlett

A very enjoyable and cordial meeting was held at Peter Corlett's studio in Fitzroy a couple of weeks ago.
A number of Peter's works are seen here - Beersheba, Bullecourt Digger, Cobbers, Simpson and His Donkey, and the artist himself working on the Beersheba statue.
The process of the creation of our "cadet' statue involves a clay model, then the "larger than life" size model, and then the casting in bronze.
In keeping with the re-dedication of Badcoe Hall, Peter suggested that the "face" of the "cadet" be that of Peter Badcoe. This helps Peter in his work as he is a "humanist" and the statue takes on a "persona".
At present the Request to have the statue at Portsea is with the Point Nepean Community Trust Board, which will meet towards the end of Aug. All being well, we should have the concurrence we need to go ahead. The cost of the statue's creation, including transport, mounting and plaque is in the order of $100,000. The intention is that Alumni members will be invited to contribute $100 (+ or -) each (a "funds thermometer" will be on this site to progressively indicate contributions progress. Gerard Nelson will open an account specifically for the project, and Alumni members will be able to deposit their contributions directly via direct deposit/bank transfer, or cheque. The account details will be made known early in September. Contributors may have their names added to a "list" on the website in acknowledgement of their contribution, although amounts contributed will not be listed.
The widest possible promulgation of this project is requested so that Alumni members can have ample opportunity to make their contributions. Remember, Alumni members are all cadets (graduated or not) and staff of the OCS from mid 1952 to end 1985.

By all means, please leave a "comment" and let's know your thoughts...!

Statue of Officer Cadet

(Please read this article with the one preceding, ie Return to Portsea)
Some time ago, a suggestion came up about a lasting memento to the old Officer Cadet School from all the cadets and staff. Something that would be prominent and that would be most appropriate to secure the "spirit" of the OCS in the grounds forever.

A slightly larger than life-size statue was suggested. A statue of an Officer Cadet, dressed in greens, wearing peaked cap, sleeves rolled up, gaiters and boots AB, and black belt. Perhaps even in a saluting pose, facing the Parade Ground.

The ideal location for this would be the base on which the old Memorial Wall was situated - the Memorial Wall now having been sited most prominently at the Royal Military College, Duntroon.

All of us from 1967 onwards would remember the custom of saluting the "Wall" each time we passed it - from either direction and even on-the-run! In fact, I've seen members of quite a few classes who have visited Portsea in the past couple of years even continue this practice, without the "Wall" being there anymore. A most sincere and respectful gesture by all - well done!

OK, so is this gesture of a statue a viable one? Please cast your vote on the Poll concerning this.

A number of considerations arise. Cost? Who pays? Is this something that can be accomplished by the time we have a "Return to Portsea" arranged (now early February 2009), so that it can be unveiled at that time?

Please let us know your thoughts on this. Submit a comment, or two, or three....!