Ross Cameron’s sculpture of steel and concrete, Tidal Spiral, was put in place on Sunday, August 2, on the grassed area overlooking the popular beach.

Bega Valley Shire Council’s manager of community, culture and information, Simon Schweitzer, said the sculpture will add to what is already a popular spot for locals and visitors to Merimbula.

“Having public art throughout the shire creates a point of difference, it enhances the feel and attractiveness of areas and encourages use of public spaces,” he said.

“Council commenced its $10,000 acquisitive prize at last year’s Sculpture on the Edge exhibition in Bermagui, and Tidal Spiral will be our second public artwork to enhance the shire’s landscape.

“Last year’s winner, Southern Exuberance by Alan Watt of Tanja, is located on the seafront at Bermagui, and it’s pleasing to see Short Point being enhanced with Mr Cameron’s ocean themed artwork.

“Tidal Spiral has a strong connection to the ocean and coastal life, and Mr Cameron is happy with Short Point being chosen as the stage for his work.

“The Bega Valley Shire Council acquisitive prize is a great showcase for the wealth of artistic talent we have in the area,” Mr Schweitzer said.

Mr Cameron said his work is about “rhythms, wave forms and movement - it’s also about growth, rebirth and the cycle of life”.

“Much of the inspiration for this work is derived from nature - observing plant structure, aquatic life forms, intricate shell formations and the dynamics of wave motion.

“There is also a tactile reference to rock formations and the rusting, corrosive power of the ocean.

“In general my work is eclectic and gathers inspiration from a number of sources, incorporating organic elements derived from nature, the ocean but also is influenced by tribal and ancient megalithic art.

“I work in varied materials including ceramic, terrazzo, resin, stone, steel and bronze.

“This work is constructed from welded steel reinforcing rod, box steel and is rendered in concrete and patinated.

“The work was constructed at my studio in Tanja and took a couple of months to complete and I enjoyed every moment of it.

“The scale presented some challenges - you have to take many factors into consideration once you get over a certain size.

“Engineering comes into play - it has to be structurally sound and support its own weight adequately.

“You also have to consider how it will be moved and how it will stand up over time ... of course time will tell!

“I hope the work will remain at Short Point for some time.

“I want it to complement and add a point of contemplation to that beautiful location.

“I really hope the community come to appreciate the piece and enjoy it being there.”