The new paint design proposed for Adaminaby’s Big Trout. Photo: SMRC.
While the saying is usually ‘out with the old, in with the new’, that might not be the case for Adaminaby’s Big Trout.
The local landmark underwent extensive maintenance and restoration works in late 2023, but its new paint scheme raised some eyebrows in the community.
Via a quick scan of social media, you can see the new look being called things like “tragic”, “atrocious” and an “abomination”.
Following what Snowy Monaro Regional Council says was “significant feedback”, Council has opened a final poll to decide between the original 1970s paint design or the most popular new option from recent consultation.
“Despite option four being the winner of the poll that closed last week, comments received alongside the vote showed that a significant number of people wish to see artist Andy Lomnici’s original design recreated – instead of a new design,” a council spokesperson said.
“We have listened to the passionate range of views our community has voiced about this important decision.
“That’s why we are asking for your help one final time to decide whether the Big Trout dons a new look or preserves its proud history.”
Council said the idea for the Big Trout was born in 1969. Adaminaby Lions Club member Leigh Stewart proposed to install a large rainbow trout in a picnic park in the town and this idea was supported by a drawing by Susanne Robertson.
This is the original paint design for the Big Trout in Adaminaby. Photo: SMRC.
The giant fish was created by Mr Lomnici, a Hungarian-born artist who came to Australia in 1940 and worked as a teacher before he became a full-time artist based out of Adaminaby later in life.
He used a frozen trout as his model and sketched the design on the floor of the bowling club before constructing it from steel and fibreglass.
Since it was unveiled in 1973, it has become a local attraction and holds a special place in the community.
It is now on the list of 150 ‘Big Things’ that can be found across the country, a list that includes the likes of the Big Merino in Goulburn, the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour and the Big Swoop in Canberra.
“The Big Trout holds a special place in the hearts of Adaminaby locals and people across the country,” Mayor Chris Hanna said last month.
“We want to ensure the final look does a better job of honouring this important landmark.”
Council will host a pop-up session at the Big Trout between 11 am and 4 pm on 6 May to speak with the community about the final design.
To vote in the poll, click this link. It closes at 5 pm on 7 May.
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