Geelong took on a pink look over the weekend to honour the life of Dame Olivia Newton-John.
The City of Greater Geelong Council partnered with local projection artist Matt Bonner and turned the front of the City Hall on Geringhap Street a bright pink for Dame Newton-John on Sunday.
Mayor Trent Sullivan said the Council wanted to celebrate the achievements and life of the singer, actor and activist who died of breast cancer in August last year.
“The Greater Geelong community has been touched by Olivia’s talent and warmth through her musical and acting pursuits,” he said.
“Her compassion and drive to help those with cancer through both the Olivia Newton-John Foundation and Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre deeply resonated with our residents.”
“Olivia was an icon and inspiration, and we are proud to call her Australian.”
The catenary lights at the Malop and Moorabool Street intersections, Litle Malop Central festoons, Central Geelong and Waterfront smart pole beacon lights, and Waterfront palm trees also glowed pink from 8.30pm on Sunday.
Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken said Dame Newton-John had brought great joy to the Geelong community.
“Over her six-decade career, Olivia gained fans of all ages for her bubbly and caring persona and her desire to help,” Cr Aitken said.
“She changed lives and has left a long legacy for the arts, cancer research and wellbeing, the environment and animal rights.”
The colour pink is used to raise awareness of breast and gynaecological cancers, and a free, ticketed State Memorial Service also occurred at Melbourne’s Hammer Hall from 4pm on Sunday.
Dame Newton-John’s family requested that memorial tributes are made through donations to the Wellness Programs at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre.
