Games icons hooked

By Paul Dunlop
THE large fish sculptures which were displayed on the Yarra River during the Commonwealth Games will now become local landmarks.
Cardinia and Casey councils have both been successful in landing souvenirs of one of the main talking points of the memorable Melbourne event.
Cardinia Shire will receive the Golden Arrowana fish, the fish which represented the shire’s official second team of Malaysia. This fish will be placed at the environment centre in Emerald Lake Park where it is expected to be a focal point for people who take the Puffing Billy train trip.
The City of Casey will receive the Roach, which is the fish of Casey’s ‘adopted’ nation of England. It will be placed at the Tooradin boardwalk.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato said the two councils were among 33 to catch a part of Games history.
“I am thrilled that both local councils have secured a part of Melbourne and Victoria’s history and that residents and visitors to the area will be able to enjoy these sculptures in their new settings,” Ms Lobato said.
“These fish captured the imagination of the public and added to the spectacle and enjoyment of the Commonwealth Games.
“They are a fantastic keepsake for and residents of Casey and Cardinia.
“They will now have these longlasting reminders of this special time in our history and become permanent features in the local community,” she said.
Both councils got their first choice. Cardinia’s fish in particular was the subject of debate with sparks flying between council mayor Bill Ronald and Bass MP Ken Smith over which catch would be best.
Mr Smith wanted the Bass fish while Cr Ronald backed the Golden Arrowana bid.