The "Oceanides" sculpture at Fairy Bower pool, dubbed the ‘Sea Nymphs’ by locals, will be reinstalled from today (Wednesday 6 September) following a huge fundraising effort by the community, supported by Northern Beaches Council.
Council Chief Executive Mark Ferguson said the project was a wonderful example of residents and Council working together to achieve a worthwhile goal.
“So much more than just a sculpture, the Sea Nymphs is a local icon and representative of the importance of art and culture on the Northern Beaches.
“We are thrilled to have been able to work with a group of very passionate and dedicated locals to give new life to these joyous dancers,” Mr Ferguson said.
Created by sculptor Helen Leete, "Oceanides" had formed part of the landscape between Manly and Shelly Beach for 18 years before being damaged in the June 2016 storms.
Originally made from ceramic, the replacement sculpture has been cast in bronze and anchored with marine-quality, rust-proof steel.
The work was carried out by bronze foundry Australian Bronze at Manly’s North Head.
Fundraising for the reinstallation of the sculpture was coordinated by the Save Our Sea Nymphs Committee with support from the Federal Government’s Australian Cultural Fund.