Published on Wednesday, 7 May 2025 at 11:37:43 AM
The Shire of Wagin is making final preparations for a free family friendly event this Saturday, 10 May 2025 to mark the town’s iconic Ram ‘Baart’s 40th birthday.
The birthday party in the Shire’s Wetlands Park will feature food trucks, face-painting, music, games, lazer-tag and a special appearance from children’s favourite Bluey the Blue Healer will celebrate the Wagin community and its biggest icon.
The event has been made possible through a $10,000 LotteryWest grant.
Baart was initially planned in 1983 as a tourist attraction that reflected Wagin’s deep connections with the sheep industry. Designed and built by Andrew Hickson, Baart the Giant Ram is 9 metres tall, 14 metres long and weighs 4 tonnes. The construction and installation of the Ram was entirely funded by the community at a cost at the time of $34,000.
On 9 May 1985, nearly 1,000 spectators watched the Ram’s journey along the Main Street to his home at the town’s Wetlands Park.
Recognised as one of Australia's iconic 'big things' and immortalised on a $1 coin in 2023, Baart remains a prominent landmark. This celebration also serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Wagin community, particularly as the vital local sheep industry faces challenges following the Commonwealth Government's decision regarding live exports.
Saturday’s event will be attended many in the community who were involved in the construction and have fond memories of seeing it come to reality. The Shire will be proud to welcome Andrew Hickson’s wife Gwen to the occasion as Andrew sadly passed away in 2020.
The Shire of Wagin invites residents and visitors alike to join the celebration this Saturday, 10 May 2025 from 10:00am through the afternoon at the Wetlands Park to honour Baart's 40 years watching over the town.
Cr Phillip Blight
SHIRE PRESIDENT
End of Media Release
Media Enquiries to Cr Phillip Blight | M: 0429 948 868 | E: sp@wagin.wa.gov.au
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