Subiaco’s giant, Bille Bob, turns one on 12 November, marking a full year since the sculpture chose Theatre Gardens as his home.
Part of the Giants of Mandurah exhibition by renowned international artist Thomas Dambo, Bille Bob was the only giant to venture outside of the Mandurah Peel region as part of the free outdoor exhibition.
Since arriving, Bille Bob has continued to cast his magic, attracting an estimated 92,639 visitors and 339 average visits per day with these numbers showing no signs of slowing.
For his first birthday, the whimsical wooden sculpture received some TLC (an oiling) to ensure he is looking his best for the next year ahead.
Since he arrived, Bille Bob has hosted a number of community events including giant-themed storytime, oversized games for the family, and school holiday activities.
Mayor David McMullen took the opportunity to pay tribute to the birthday boy, Bille Bob.
“Here in our City, people have really embraced Bille Bob. He's larger-than-life, and possibly even one of Subiaco's favourite sons at the moment. But Bille Bob is not only loved by the local community, he is also drawing visitors from further afield,” he said.
“The numbers don't lie; Bille Bob is a drawcard, attracting people for a special trip to our City and, for those already in the area, coaxing them to take a detour and stay a little longer.
“Bille Bob is part of a worldwide trail of creations by Thomas Dambo (known as 'Trolls' in other countries). For anyone wanting to share in the magic, who isn't travelling overseas (or to Mandurah) – Bille Bob lies waiting to be found.
“Don't just look at photos; the Giants experience is best experienced in person. Come to Subiaco and discover Bille Bob in Subiaco – as he won't be here forever.”
Both an artist and environmental activist, Dambo's artistic practice celebrates the diversity, beauty and importance of the natural world, using recycled and locally sourced materials in his creations.
Dambo has previously exhibited his wooden sculptures throughout the world, including in his home country of Denmark, as well as Chile, China, France, Germany, South Korea and the United States of America.
The Giants of Mandurah exhibition is a finalist in this year's Perth Airport Tourism Awards.
The Giants of Mandurah exhibition was initiated and produced by FORM and delivered in collaboration with the City of Mandurah. The project is supported by the State Government through Tourism WA’s Regional Events Program, the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, Lotterywest, and the City of Subiaco.