Games fish bait for Lakeside

By Paul Dunlop
PAKENHAM could hook a piece of Commonwealth Games history.
A fish that took centre stage in the recent opening ceremony celebrations will find its way to the lake at Lakeside at Pakenham, if Bass MP Ken Smith has his way. The State Government is seeking expressions of interest from councils for the fish.
Mr Smith last week staked a claim for the bass fish to be offered to Cardinia Shire.
It remains to be seen whether the catch can be landed with municipalities around Victoria vying to get one of the giant water sculptures, which were designed to represent a species of fish from each of the 71 nations of the commonwealth. Council is also believed to be interested in getting a fish but has not officially set its sights on the bass.
Council may instead opt for the golden arowana, which ties in with its Malaysian association during the games. Speaking in State Parliament, Mr Smith said Lakeside would be a perfect spot to display the prize catch and believes “bass for Bass” is the best bet.
Mr Smith said the fish would be a constant reminder to the people of Cardinia Shire of the great Commonwealth Games that were held in Melbourne.
“I think that would be marvellous,” Mr Smith said. “I am sure the council would be able to find a very prominent position and by the lake would be an ideal spot.”
Councils from around Victoria are believed to be interested in securing one of the fish designed as stage props along the Yarra River. However there are concerns that not all will handle prolonged life out of water.
The fish sculptures were never intended to be permanent additions to the art scene – particularly if kept outdoors. It was expected they would be recycled, but their popularity during the games has made them soughtafter souvenirs. Each fish is about six to eight metres in length and three metres high but not particularly heavy.
Premier Steve Bracks said recently that most of the water sculptures would be offered to Victorian councils free of charge but they would have to cover transport and other costs.
Casey Council is also bidding for a fish and hopes to land the English representative, the roach or redfin.