Call for Entries: Wonthaggi Women’s Art Tribute
Bass Coast Shire Council is excited to announce that Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for a major public art commission at The Union Theatre, Wonthaggi. This extraordinary opportunity, open to female-identifying artists, is one of only six projects across the state to be funded through the State Government’s Victorian Women’s Public Art Program (Round Two).
The inspiring commission will honour the Wonthaggi Miners Women’s Auxiliary – a trailblazing collective including Agnes Chambers and Agnes Doig, founded in 1934 to support the Wonthaggi Miners’ Union and community during a historic five-month strike.
This year is especially significant, as we marked a century of The Union Theatre in February, with a special screening of Strikebound, the award-winning film shot in Wonthaggi. The portrayal of Agnes Doig and the Women’s Auxiliary in that film brought their story to the screen. Now, a new generation of artists will bring it to the street.
For artists, this is a rare and beautiful opportunity to connect art with deep historical resonance. The commissioned piece will be integrated into the conceptual ‘hem’ of the Union Theatre, enhancing the cultural identity and street presence of The Union Theatre, drawing attention to the historic and ongoing significance of the building and its contributions to the cultural life of Wonthaggi.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead said the project is a celebration of both past and future:
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for Wonthaggi. We’re not just commemorating history; we’re inviting artists to help carry it forward. I’m so excited to see a future piece that will honour the fierce, community-building women of our past, while creating new opportunities for the artists of today. This is good for our history, and great for women in the arts.”
Submitting an Expression of Interest is easy. All that is needed is a short application form, with a statement of interest, your CV or portfolio, and demonstration of your experience with similar projects.
Artists successfully shortlisted will be invited to attend a site visit and interview with our Public Art team. Expressions of Interest close Thursday, 24 July 2025.
https://www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/about-council/news-listing/expressions-of-interest-now-open-public-artwork-to-honour-wonthaggis-women