Published on Friday, 23 October 2026 at 4:58:05 PM
The future of one of the Shire's most recognisable landmarks, Fergus the Bull, will be considered as part of the next stage of planning for the proposed Ferguson Valley Public Art Trail.
A report to Council next week seeks support for further planning and community consultation on the project, including engagement with residents and the original artist regarding the potential relocation of Fergus from his current Forrest Highway location to Dardanup Town Centre as a possible trailhead for the art trail. No decision has been made regarding the sculpture's future location.
Shire President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said Fergus was a much-loved local icon and any future consideration of relocation would only occur following extensive community consultation.
"Fergus has been part of our community's identity for many years and we understand that people may have strong views about his future," said Cr Tyrrell Gardiner.
"Council is not being asked to make a decision on relocating Fergus. At this stage, we're simply considering how further planning and community consultation should occur as part of the broader Public Art Trail project."
The idea emerged through community engagement undertaken earlier this year to help shape the future of the Ferguson Valley Public Art Trail. Participants identified Dardanup Town Centre as a priority area for activation and suggested Fergus could potentially become a welcoming entry feature under a 'Follow Fergus' trail concept.
Under the concept, Fergus could help connect visitors to local artworks, attractions, stories and experiences throughout Dardanup and the Ferguson Valley through signage, digital content and family-friendly trail activities.
Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the broader project was about celebrating the region's unique culture, heritage and landscapes.
"The Ferguson Valley Public Art Trail is much more than a collection of artworks. It's an opportunity to showcase the stories that make our region unique and create new experiences for residents and visitors alike."
Cr Gardiner said the proposed trail has been shaped through engagement with community representatives, residents, local artists, businesses, Aboriginal Elders and government stakeholders. Its central theme, 'Connection to Land', aims to celebrate more than 60,000 years of Noongar culture alongside the district's agricultural, timber, environmental and community heritage.
He said if supported by Council, further stakeholder engagement, site investigations and business case development would be undertaken before future funding opportunities are pursued. Any proposal relating to Fergus would also be subject to dedicated community consultation and discussions with the original artist.
An exciting new concept being considered by Council could see the iconic Fergus the Bull play a bigger role in connecting
visitors to the stories, culture and attractions that make our region unique.
Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Coordinator Communications and Marketing | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.
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