An iconic symbol of the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics, the Discobolus Monument, has been added to the State Heritage Register.
Created by artist Robert Owen, the Discobolus Monument Moveable Heritage Group comprises multiple elements, including a distinctive seven-metre-wide disc sculpture, a stone wall, cypress and olive trees, as well as marble plaques linked to the families that supported the initiative before its installation.
The elements were installed at Sydney Olympic Park ahead of the Olympics as a tribute to the Games’ Greek roots.
“The 2000 Olympics was one of the great moments in Sydney’s history and 25 years later we are adding the Discobolus Monument and connected elements to the State Heritage Register,” said Minister for Heritage, Penny Sharpe.
“This eye-catching piece is more than art. It symbolises a connection to the Games and is a tribute to our Greek community.
“The Olympic Games are one of Greece’s greatest gifts to the world, and this monument reflects the pride Sydney’s Greek community takes in that legacy.”
Made from glass and eight tonnes of stainless steel, the disc symbolises the original discus thrower, Castor, metaphorically hurling a discus from ancient Greece to Sydney’s Olympics. The disc also resembles a CD-ROM – a nod to technology and the culture of the era.
The grove of olive and cypress trees surrounds the disc as a living link between Sydney Olympic Park and the first Olympics and the goddess Artemis.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to funding this sculpture and the elements around it more than 25 years ago. You will be forever cherished on the State Heritage Register,” said Minister Sharpe.
The work of art joins the Sydney Olympic Cauldron as another monument in Sydney Olympic Park on the State Heritage Register. The listing requires the Discobolus Monument Moveable Heritage Group to be retained and maintained within Sydney Olympic Park.
For information about State Heritage Listings, visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/heritage/search-heritage-databases/state-heritage-inventory.
