About the project
Council will be undertaking works at Tomaree Sports Complex in Nelson Bay to upgrade the facilities within the sports complex. As part of this upgrade, a new roundabout will be incorporated into the design of the entry road into the precinct. This project is looking to install a sculptural public art piece in the roundabout, creating an eye catching and interesting artwork as you enter the complex.
Council is seeking expressions of interest to create a sculptural artwork that celebrates the natural beauty of the area. The artistic interpretation may include, but is not limited to the following themes:
- Contours of the surrounding landscape
- Features of adjacent bushland
- Local fauna
At this stage, Council is seeking high level submissions to shortlist for Stage 2 which will involve a detailed concept development.
Tomaree Sports Complex – Background
Tomaree Sports Complex is a unique facility and important sporting centre within the Port Stephens LGA. Located near Tomaree National Park and Gan Gan lookout, the sports complex is surrounded by dense bushland and eucalypt covered hills.
The site is frequently used by community sports, local schools and can hold large scale regional events.
About the space
The maximum space designated for this project is approx. 50m2. It is not a requirement to utilise the entire space.
The artwork should be designed for exposure to the elements and be low maintenance. It should also take into consideration sight lines for road safety. Supply of electricity will be considered for the piece; however, no other utilities will be available.
For maps of the space, please refer to the artist brief at the bottom of this form.
Budget
Up to $50,000
For more details on what should be considered as part of this budget, please refer to the artist brief at the bottom of this form.
Key Dates
EOI open: 16 December 2025
EOI closes: 30 January 2026
Artist(s) selected for Stage 2: February 2026
Installation commences: August 2026
Project complete by: October 2026
How to Apply:
Artists are invited to submit an Expression of Interest with a written concept and example of previous works. Designs are not required at this stage. Selected artist(s) will be invited to create a detailed concept design at the next stage of the project. Your expression of interest will include:
- Contact details including name, mobile, email address and street address
- Current CV relevant to the opportunity
- Relevant experience and examples of previous work
- Written response to the artist brief (max 1 page). Include potential colours, materials, story that would drive the concept development, approach to design development and install. Note: we do not require detailed concepts or design at this stage.
- Evidence of relevant insurances
Applications will be assessed by a panel against the following selection criteria:
- Relevance of proposal to the artist brief
- Artistic creativity and innovation of the proposal
- Experience, particularly in public art
- Capacity to complete the work within budget and timeframe
Click here to view the artist brief.
For further information or to discuss your application and EOI please contact:
Zoe Schulze
Vibrant Places Officer
02 4988 0215
vibrantplaces@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
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