The Fences Act 1968

Artist: Tony Trembath 
Year: 1994
Location: Edendale Community Environment Farm, Eltham

Trembath’s 25-metre-long installation of wood and metal comprises groups of recycled tree trunks fitted with metal caps. The rustic fence runs between the groups of tree trunks with native planting in clumps along it. The fence line incorporates a functional engineered double gate and post and rail fencing.

The work may have many interpretations and aims to stimulate interest, curiosity and imagination. Interpretation is based on the personal experience that a visitor brings when viewing the work. The artist recommended that no explanation of the design accompany the work to allow anyone to form their own interpretations.

Eltham Council commissioned this work in 1989 aided by a grant from the Ministry of the Arts. Edendale Farm is a demonstration farm modelling sustainable environmental practices, providing support to the local residents of Nillumbik. Established in 1986, the land was purchased in 1970. It was previously an English gentleman's residence and was used for grazing. It consists of 5.6 hectares, with the Diamond Creek meandering through the property.

The Victorian Fences Act 1968 of the title governs deals with disputes between neighbours regarding boundaries and fences. This work took into consideration ideas and suggestions from residents and committees, who required the use of recycled materials and that the work celebrate man's relationship with nature, animals and the earth, as well as relate to the fence line on the far side of the carpark. Trembath also absorbed significant aspects of local history, making references to Eltham's agricultural past, the clearing of the land, the destruction of trees, the ruthless pruning of trees by suburban Councils and incorporated such Australian features as the post and rail fence.

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