Memorial project and arts activity gather momentum in Montville
A proposed memorial space aimed at bringing people together to rest, reflect and connect with place is gaining traction in Montville, and the community is invited to help shape its design.
The Montville Village Association (MVA) says the Memorial Project will transform land to the east of the Montville Village Hall and Deck into a multi-use space where locals and visitors can “eat, play, rest, contemplate and reflect”.
Early ideas for the site include viewing platforms, bush tucker plantings, a sensory trail, and a dry creek bed with embedded boulders. There is also a proposal for interpretive signage with QR codes offering brief explanations about conflicts and peacekeeping engagements.
Local architect Roger Todd has been engaged to develop a basic 3D model, 2D schematic drawings and a supporting report, which will form part of a future major grant application following community consultation.
The MVA is now calling on the community to contribute ideas, with feedback helping guide the next stage of the project.
At the same time, Montville’s arts and cultural scene continues to expand, with a strong mix of established venues and new initiatives drawing attention along Main Street and beyond.
Arts Connect Inc is activating the former Pharmacy site with an Art Space and live demonstrations, while galleries such as Little May and Priscilla’s, Montville Art Gallery and Reflections Gallery continue to showcase local work.
Workshops and classes are also a key feature, including offerings from Sunshine Art School, Art Workshops Montville and Anne Gentry-Smith’s clay studio.
Further activity is planned through the Montville Timber Trail, with workshops and demonstrations to be held at the Village Hall in May, alongside Makers’ Design Fairs at Montvale.
Photography and glasswork are also on display locally, including works by Ben Messina in Main Street and Tina Cooper at Illume Gallery in nearby Mayfield.
Residents with ideas for the Memorial Project are encouraged to contact Cate Patterson at montvillehistorygroup1@gmail.com.
• The MVA aims to represent the views of the local community on matters associated with the progress and development of Montville, to provide and support social structures to maintain a healthy and vibrant community, and to manage the Montville Village Hall and the Montville Sports and Recreation Grounds fairly. For information: secretary.mva@gmail.com.