Things to See

The plaque at the base of Black Mountain in Canberra is one such curiosity. It's easy to miss if you're not paying attention, but it tells a fascinating story once you stop and read it.

Black Mountain is a prominent landmark in Canberra that offers stunning views of the city. In the mid-20th century, however, it was earmarked for development, and plans were made to build a lookout tower on its summit that would allow tourists to take in the views. The project got underway, but it was soon clear that it wasn't going to be as straightforward as initially thought. A combination of technical difficulties and public opposition meant that construction dragged on for years, and the tower remained unfinished.

It was during this extended period of construction that the idea for the plaque was born. In 1968, a group of local artists approached the National Capital Development Commission (NCDC) with a proposal to create a public artwork that would commemorate Black Mountain and its role in the city's history. The NCDC agreed, and the artists were given the go-ahead to create a plaque that would be installed at the base of the mountain.

The plaque itself is an impressive piece of work. Made from wrought iron, it features intricate designs that capture the flora and fauna of the region. The central feature is a map of Canberra, which is encased in a circle and shows Black Mountain's location relative to the rest of the city. There are no words on the plaque, but the absence of text is intentional. The artists wanted visitors to interpret the artwork in their own way and create their own stories about the significance of Black Mountain to Canberra and its people.

Despite the lack of words, there is no doubt that the plaque has become an important part of the city's cultural landscape. It serves as a reminder of the struggles that took place to preserve Black Mountain from development, and it highlights the importance of public art in creating a sense of identity and belonging. Over the years, the plaque has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to take photos and reflect on the history of the area.

The plaque at the base of Black Mountain may seem like a small and insignificant thing, but it's a powerful symbol of the role that art and history can play in building a sense of community. It's a reminder that even the most humble pieces of public art can have a lasting impact on the people who encounter them. So next time you're hiking in the area, take a moment to stop and appreciate the plaque, and consider the story it tells about the remarkable history of Canberra and its people.