House debates

Wednesday, 4 March 2020

Parliamentary Zone

9:31 am

Photo of Michael McCormackMichael McCormack (Riverina, National Party, Leader of the Nationals) Share this | | Hansard source

I move:

That, in accordance with section 5 of the Parliament Act 1974, the House approve the following proposal for work in the Parliamentary Zone, which was presented to the House on 24 February 2020, namely: Sculpture of Sir John McEwen and associated works.

The National Capital Authority is seeking approval for proposed works within the Parliamentary Zone being a commemoration of Sir John McEwen, Australia's 18th Prime Minister. A full body cast bronze statue of Sir John serves as a focal feature within a commemorative pavement which represents the various services and industries of rural and regional Australia. Sir John, best known as 'Blackjack', is portrayed standing over two bags of wheat, which are representative of his longstanding contribution to Australia's trade efforts and also to rural and regional Australians. Adjacent to the works will be a metal sign with interpretive material describing the purpose of the works. The project has been developed by the National Capital Authority in close collaboration with the National Party of Australia. Approval of both houses is sought under section 5(1) of the Parliament Act 1974 for the proposed works in the Parliamentary Zone. I commend this motion to the House.

Question agreed to.