Public Art: Odyssey, 1998

Artist: Albie Herbert and Eric Schneider

In April 1997 the City of Wanneroo commissioned a public sculpture to be designed and created to reflect the changing attitude to whales and whaling. It was also to mark the site of Patrick Marmion’s Whaling Station that once stood where the Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club is now situated.

At the time of the whaling station, the station chimney became a beacon for passing ships. The sculpture was created by professional WA artist Albie Herbert. Some of the images that appear on the sculpture were designed by the Year 7 class at Marmion Primary School. During the development of the sculpture the students learnt much about whaling and whales.