In a quiet suburb, a couple's tribute to history has stirred unexpected controversy. Wanting to honour the past, they created a personal memorial in their backyard, only to find themselves facing opposition from local authorities.

What began as a heartfelt remembrance has now sparked a debate over personal expression and community regulations.


The memorial, a three-meter-tall sculpture symbolising an eternal flame, was meant to be a peaceful and beautiful reminder of the past.

'You'll see four ribbons flowing up...they could maybe be construed as seaweed, but to us, they're eternal flames,' Sharon explained.


However, Willoughby Council did not share the couple's sentiment. The council deemed the silver sculpture unapproved and non-compliant with planning controls, stating that it 'may hurt the landscape amenity and natural foreshore setting.'

This decision has left the couple bewildered and frustrated.

'I didn't think I would need DA approval on my own land to put something that's like landscaping, really,' Norbert said.


The couple is now facing the harsh reality of dismantling their tribute, but they are unwilling to do so without a fight.

'I will not back down over something as trivial as a memorial in my own back garden,' Sharon declared, her words echoing the determination of a community that has overcome great adversity.

The council's statement reveals that the issue arose after an inspection confirmed the works were unauthorised.

While a vehicular turntable on the property was allowed to remain, the council is still assessing a car stacker, and the Holocaust memorial was outright refused due to its location within the Foreshore Building Line (FBL)—a planning control designed to protect the foreshore environment.

In an attempt to find a resolution, the council's General Manager plans to meet with Sharon and Norbert.

The council has expressed recognition of the memorial's importance and the role such tributes play in educating future generations about the Holocaust.


Mayor Tanya Taylor has also emphasised the community's commitment to unity and understanding, condemning the rise in anti-Semitic attacks and violence against racial and faith-based communities.

This situation raised important questions about the balance between preserving local environments and respecting personal expressions of heritage and remembrance.

In older news, a bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth II in Northern Ireland has faced backlash for its poor likeness, with locals likening it to Mrs Doubtfire.

The criticism adds to a growing list of controversial sculptures, including the infamous bust of Cristiano Ronaldo, which went viral for its unflattering appearance. You can read more about it here.


How do you feel about the council's decision? Should there be more flexibility in planning controls for memorials of significant cultural importance? Let's discuss the importance of preserving our history and the ways in which we choose to remember it.