The large obelisk, known as the Federation Star, is located on the same grounds as the Bill the Bastard statue in Murrumburrah. The obelisk was crafted and built by local engineer Russell Muirhead in 2001.
Hilltops residents and visitors can now view the story behind the building of the Federation Star on two information panels placed between the two small obelisks that had been erected in 2003.
The information panels were funded by donations collected by the Harden Murrumburrah Historical Society. The stainless-steel panels were engraved by CTR Trophies, Gifts and Engraving at Young. The framed panels stand between the two smaller obelisks, which hold poems at their base.
The choice of an obelisk for the monument was inspired by their use by four of the five A.I.F Divisions that served in the First World War. These Divisions built obelisks to record their campaigns and as an honour.
The Murrumburrah obelisk, fabricated entirely in stainless steel, and at 14.1 metres high, is the tallest true obelisk in New South Wales.
At its peak is a 1:2000 scaled replica of the Pyramid of Cheops, polished to a mirror finish. Interestingly, A.I.F. Troops were camped in its vicinity before embarking on the Gallipoli campaign.
The two intersecting Stars at the apex of the obelisk have their origins in the Federation Star on the Australian Flag.
The star symbolises the six States and Territories which were not previously recognised in 1901, when a six-pointed star was in use for the six states only.
These two 1.5-diameter stars take the overall height of the structure to 15.7 metres.
The point of one of the stars points directly at the apex of the pyramid, the corresponding star points vertically to the sky.
It is the star in particular that celebrates the spirit of Australia; the values of goodwill and mutual respect in the community today. It is a symbol of harmony and optimism.
Importantly, it expresses the desire for a united and free Australia.
The four faces of the obelisk are polished with images embedded.
The front face has the snake “Biri-Biri”, the red-bellied black snake, which according to Aboriginal legend, is the protector of children.
This image faces the main street, Albury Street, and reflects the importance of indigenous values and culture in our community.
The other three faces highlight the importance of agriculture, wool, livestock, horticulture and transport in our local economy. The three faces are polished with images of livestock, cereals, oils, fruit and viticulture. All produced and grown within the Shire.
The obelisk stonework is granite recycled from pioneering dwellings within the Shire, primarily from the ruins of a cottage owned by the Stewart family of Currawong Road.
The stainless steel was purchased as scrap using funds from the Kruger Trust. This contribution of $3,500 was the only cash used in the project.
All design, fabrication, polishing and coordination were Russell Muirhead’s work and brainchild.
In 2001, the centenary of Federation and the Year of the Volunteer, this monument was opened by Rev. Connie Gerraty and Graham Stewart, who was the NSW State Councillor R.S.L., Australia, on 26th of August and celebrates the victory of generosity and goodwill existing within the community.
[Excerpts from the information panels with permission of Russell Muirhead]
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