THE FLY-BOYS

ARTIST TEAM: JON DENARO, BEC JUNIPER, LINTON PARTINGTON, BRETT TODMAN, AARON FRY, ROM DENARO, CHE DENARO, JEBEDIAH SUN, STEVEN BUCKLES & HAYLEY PARTINGTON

CLIENT: BRIDGE42

ENGINEER: FORTH CONSULTING

FABRICATION: COOLING BROTHERS

LOCATION: PORT HEDLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT STAGE 2

COMPLETED: 2023

The ongoing refurbishment and expansion of the Port Hedland International Airport present an exciting opportunity for the creation of public art. This project encompasses various elements, including two rammed earth wall sculptures. The first sculpture, measuring 7m in length and 2.4m in height, will be located at the entry, while the second, measuring 25m in length and 2.4m in height, will be situated in the departures lounge. Additionally, there will be a 25m long integrated glazing piece featuring historical imagery from the Port Hedland Library, as well as a sculptural seating piece measuring 6 x 3.5m.

In September 2022, our directors, Bec Juniper and Jon Denaro, traveled to Port Hedland to initiate the community engagement aspect of the project. The Fly-Boys, milk runs, the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the original spinifex-roofed hut and the Fokker airplanes, this artwork showcases the history of the airport and its integral role in connecting people, cultures, and memories across time. Layers of carefully selected historical imagery reveal the airport’s evolution and the vibrant tapestry of experiences.

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation, Nicholas Green and Frank Brown from Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation, Port Hedland Historical Society, Sheriff’s Department, Town of Port Hedland, Yandeyarra Remote Community School, Youth Involvement Council, Port Hedland Works Department