Future of Horizon Ball remains unclear as City of Greater Geraldton awaits report

The future of the vandalised Horizon Ball remains in doubt as the City of Greater Geraldton awaits a report outlining potential actions on whether to repair, replace or remove the tourist attraction. A week ago the council was made aware the art piece had “Mad dawg” and “6642” scratched on the sphere — the latter tag believed to be the postcode for Meekatharra, Kumarina, Peak Hill, Angelo River, Karalundi and Capricorn. As of Thursday, January 25 the city was still in the process of downloading footage from a surveillance camera monitoring the area. Mayor Jerry Clune said there were no updates to provide at this stage, but the council would deliberate on a resolution once a report was prepared. “We have to bare in mind the piece is intellectual property of the artist,” he said. It’s not the first time the sphere has been targeted. The original piece exploded in November 2021 in hot weather after being weakened by vandalism. It was finally replaced in December 2022, but 12 hours after the replica was installed a 17-year-old damaged it by jumping inside the water-filled structure. The damage caused by the teen cost $11,500 including repairs, fencing and staffing costs. CCTV was installed after that incident. Last week, Mr Clune said the option of relocating the art piece — created by artist Lucy Humphrey — would defeat its purpose and the location was perfect for those wanting to visit the sculpture, have a barbecue and watch the sunset. “It’s frustrating, we try and put something nice in a public space and you only need one individual to come along and make it unpleasant for everyone,” he said. Mr Clune said he expected the report to be available in the coming weeks.