Margins Memories and Markers

Margins Memories and Markers (2003-2005) is a multi-location public art installation by the City of Port Phillip.  The stories presented at six locations throughout the city were distilled by Julie Shiels from over 400 stories submitted to the project.

In Port Melbourne there are five pieces along the foreshore called Port Stories.

Four sand-blasted granite plaques laid under the benches near the Band Rotunda relate to the piers and the soldiers going off to war and reflect the thoughts of the women and children left behind at home.  They were designed by graphic artist Dianna Wells.

Everyone Remembers the Migrants Arriving but not the Soldiers Leaving

I’d see a Soldier in the Distance and Wonder is that my Dad Coming Home

Don’t Make Them Feel Bad by Looking Sad

Don’t Forget to Write

The final piece is a mosaic by Helen Bodycombe inlaid near the extant pylon of Centenary Bridge. It does not relate to war but is a very Port Melbourne saying.

You can take the Boy out of Port but you can’t take Port out of the Boy