Edith Cowan statue finds new home in front of Geraldton Courthouse at long-awaited unveiling ceremony

The Edith Cowan statue is finally home in her birthplace after several delays and was officially shown off to the public after a long wait in front of a large crowd, including the political trailblazer’s family. About 80 people showed up to Edith Cowan Square to see the the statue unveiled by her great-nephew and former deputy premier of WA Hendy Cowan, Geraldton Volunteer Tour Guide president Julie Clark and City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Jerry Clune. Cowan will be part of the foreshore’s Heritage Trail, for visitors and locals to gaze and reflect upon the achievements and life’s work of a local legend immortalised in bronze. Mr Cowan said he was pleased be part of the ceremony which saw his great aunt recognised in her birthplace. “’I’m so pleased that I’m invited to participate in some of the things that celebrate the life of a woman who did so many things for the rights of women and children particularly,” he said. Cowan was a powerhouse most known for becoming the first woman in Australia to become a member of parliament and her persistent campaigning for women’s voting rights. She also contributed to WA society, pushing for the construction of King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women and the founder of the Children’s Protection Society. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Cowan said his great aunt would be proud that her work stood the test of time. “She would be so gratified that people are now recognising the work that she did, rather than the fact she became the first woman member of Parliament,” he said. “The work that she did for women’s and children’s rights is probably something that will stand the test of time, but to recognise it and salute that, I think is great.” The project was originally proposed and green lit by the Greater Geraldton council in December 2023, and proved to be a labour of love for the town’s Voluntary Tour Guides Association over the last three years. The association raised more than $120,000 to commission the statue through grants and donations from the local community. However, transporting the statue from the Smith Sculptor’s Perth Hills Studio in Gidgegannup to Geraldton created setbacks, with the unveiling originally slated for December last year. Ms Clark, who was a key figure in bringing Cowan home, said she was “over the moon” and “relieved” to finally see her and her team’s efforts come into fruition. “It’s her legacy, having her hear in the park opposite the courthouse,” she said. “We can be thankful for that and you can say it’s our legacy to actually highlight her work that she has done after all those years.” Mr Clune assured the statue would be well protected in Cowan’s hometown, out the front of the courthouse and police station, and acknowledged her achievements during a “difficult time.” “We can certainly acknowledge what a great woman that she was and given her time, what a leader to be able to be so forthright and push the rights that she did,” he said. “She was able to get out there and we’re certainly grateful that she’s recognised here in her hometown.” Sculptors Joan Walsh-Smith and Charles Smith were absent from the ceremony, but sent a letter which was read by master of ceremony Grant Woodhams. “We’ve completed many public statues over the years, and Edith holds a special place in our hearts,” it read. “Although our hearts are heavy, we are nevertheless heartened by the interest and devotion shown by all who have gathered here to honour a remarkable woman. “We are here with you in spirit today, and that no doubt, dear Edith herself is also here and happy to be home at last.”