The Bronze Bather statue by Anne Ross was stolen from outside the Parkdale Railway Station on November 12, 2025. The statue and a companion piece, collectively the Windsong Sculptures, were installed in December 2024 as part of the re-development of the Parkdale Station.
Bronze Bather statue by Anne Ross
The artist Anne Ross, was interviewed for the Level Crossing Removal website and spoke about her inspiration for the pieces -
There are numerous symbols I included in the works, inspired by my research and personal experience of the local area.
The one-piece bathing suit and cap, worn by both figures references local international swimming champion Annette Kellerman, who moved to the area with her parents in 1902. She was one of the first women to wear a one-piece bathing suit, which was controversial at the time, and she advocated for a women’s right to wear a one-piece starting her own line of bathing suits, among many other successful pursuits.
There is also my interpretation of a miniature representation of the Shirley Burke Theatre ‘The Winter Garden’, to acknowledge the important work and time the former Mayor dedicated to shaping Parkdale. Shirley moved to Bethel Avenue in Parkdale with her parents in the early 1950s and became deeply involved in driving many community projects, serving as mayor in the 1960s – always acting with the community at heart.
The sculptures also feature boats, an obvious connection to the bay, as are the birds. The three birds may also be seen as representing flight into the future. There are five buildings included within one of the pieces. These may be viewed as the five original shops in Parkdale, the old bathing boxes, some stables or houses – all elements that are part of Parkdale’s past and present. And of course, the dog represents the beloved local Parkdale pet population.
All that remains of the Bronze Bather sculpture are her feet.
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Image: Tim Richardson, M.P., Facebook page from 13/11/2025
This is a very sad end for a delightful statue, the inspiration for which came from the local area.
Should you have any information about Bronze Bather, contact the police or please leave a comment below or see 'Contact us' tab for anonymous emailing.
Should you actually possess the item and wish to return it its rightful owners or custodians, please contact us.
Introducing Parkdale Station's New Public Art, December 13, 2024. Level Crossing Removal Project website, read.
New Artwork at Parkdale Station, January 10, 2025. Level Crossing Removal Project website, read.
Search for Missing Statue under way, The News, Bayside, December 10, 2025, read
Anne Ross Artist and Sculptor https://www.anneross.com.au/
