It really is a treat to have these sculptures on display in our city in recognition perhaps of the broader symbolism of democracy for which Ballarat is renowned.

The Prime Ministers Avenue is indeed an unique attraction and one which captures the attention of visitors local and abroad.

According to Ballarat City Council, funding for future updates is under threat – meaning the next bust in line, that of current Prime Minister Tony Abbott, might be some time off yet.

It’s important that the Prime Minister’s Avenue is recognised for funding, not just for its historic or artistic value but because of its value in reminding us of the  great vagaries of leadership even at the highest levels.

Just think that until a rather costly but successful media campaign in recent years, so few Australians even knew the name of our first prime minister. 

Or consider Ballarat’s own Alfred Deakin who had three goes at the nation’s top public service 

position.

Fast forward to Thursday and there we had Ms Gillard unveiling her sculpture adjacent to that of Kevin Rudd, who grew so far apart from within the same political party.

It’s the power and the intrigue of leadership which captivates us and fuels our thirst for greater understanding.

Which brings us to an interesting point. 

How do we judge prime ministers such as Julia Gillard long after they depart?

 Will Ms Gillard be forever seen in the prism of the war against Rudd? Or will she be remembered for her battles against the current PM, Mr Abbott?

Whatever the political opinions about Ms Gillard, the unveiling put into strong focus one achievement which cannot be disputed.

Our Prime Minister’s Avenue features a female for the first time.

As the years go by, as visitors stroll through our gardens, it is this point on which the history lesson will be etched.