The new roundabout at the intersection of Coast Road and Byron Street in Lennox Head is officially complete — but could the gateway to town use a little artistic flair?

Some locals think so, and even Ballina Mayor Sharon Cadwallader agrees the idea has merit, but with one important caveat: “Certainly not another Big Penis.”

Yes, that’s a direct nod to Byron Bay’s infamous public art misfire in 2018, when a towering $55,000 sculpture designed to represent birds forming a lighthouse silhouette was met with widespread ridicule.

Nicknamed “the Big Byron Dick,” the piece by a Melbourne artist was eventually removed following a petition signed by over 2,000 residents.

Mayor Cadwallader says Ballina Shire Council can avoid similar controversy by consulting the community on ideas that reflect the local identity and engaging local artists.

“Public art is fantastic when it connects to place,” she said.

 “Lennox is known for surfing, and we already celebrate that. Santa on a surfboard is a local tradition! 

“But any roundabout sculpture would need to be safe, non-distracting, and meaningful.”

The newly completed $1.53 million project has transformed what was once a dangerous T-intersection into a much safer and more efficient roundabout — part of a broader upgrade to improve traffic flow and safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.

“This is a vital upgrade for one of our key arterial routes,” Cr Cadwallader said.

“It reflects our commitment to delivering infrastructure that supports a growing community and makes everyday journeys safer and more efficient.”

The upgrade includes not only the concrete roundabout itself but also a shared path connection, pedestrian refuges, new kerbs and street lighting, and updated line marking and signage.

It was funded through the Australian Government’s Black Spots Program and completed on time despite delays caused by a soggy autumn.

Adding some Lennox Coastal Character

As to whether it could be improved with some artwork, Ballina Council does maintain a budget for public art, funded by developer contributions from large commercial projects. 

These funds have recently supported art at Ballina Airport and are earmarked for future displays on the Twin Bridges over Fishery Creek and North Creek Canal.

Mayor Cadwallader says a similar process could apply at Lennox:

“Generally, we call for expressions of interest and select from local artists. That’s how we chose the sculptural surfboard installation at the Lennox Community Centre.”

The mayor hinted a sculpture celebrating cycling and walking could tie in nicely with the soon-to-be-built $3.5 million shared pathway along Byron Street.

“It might be a cyclist or a walker, or something that simply captures the Lennox village vibe. We’ll see what the community thinks,” she said.

Fellow Councillor and Lennox Chamber of Commerce President Michelle Bailey said any installation should be done in a way that was not a distraction for drivers.

“While I support the idea of a sculpture, it must reflect the community and not obstruct visibility,” Cr Bailey said.

A piece perhaps to represent Pete’s wheelbarrow would represent Lennox’s local identity, while ensuring road safety.”

So, what should stand proud at the new roundabout – a surfer? A dolphin? A wheelbarrow?

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