Councillor Des Hudson said that despite repeated requests for assistance from the federal government, no funding had been secured to continue the tradition of the city’s iconic avenue.

The avenue in Ballarat’s Botanical Gardens showcases a collection of 27 bronze busts dating from Federation to Julia Gillard’s time as leader.

Ballarat-born politician Richard Armstrong Crouch was the original donor of the first six busts, which were unveiled in 1940. 

Mr Crouch also bequeathed funds for maintaining the project, but the money ran out after Ms Gillard’s sculpture was completed.

Cr Hudson said the council had written to the federal government requesting funding for future busts,but the government has not been receptive to the idea.

“The written correspondence so far has suggested that the council should fund the Prime Ministers Avenue ourselves,” Cr Hudson said.

The busts are displayed as bronze portraits mounted on polished granite pedestals and cost between $45,000 and $55,000 each. 

The cost includes trips to Parliament House in Canberra for the artist working on the project to have sittings with the prime minister, and installation of the bust.

Cr Hudson said the council had not given up yet and planned to take the matter to the steps of Parliament at the next delegation trip to Canberra this year. 

“We haven’t yet had a face-to-face conversation with the federal government,” Cr Hudson said.

 “My hope is that we can convey to the key ministers during the next visit to Canberra the historical and cultural importance of this avenue, not just for Ballarat, but as a national asset ... one that is unparalleled anywhere else in Australia.” 

Cr Hudson said if the council was unsuccessful in securing federal funding, it could be forced to fund the tradition itself.

“I don’t think Ballarat would just let this tradition cease,” Cr Hudson said. 

“We all know the value of it in our community and, on the national stage, it draws thousands of people to the Botanical Gardens every year.” 

Cr Hudson said there was also scope to secure funding through arts-based grants, philanthropic trusts and other partnerships.  

melissa.cunningham@fairfaxmedia.com.au