Snapshot of the past: Drouin Path of Achievement

A photograph of musician turned politician Peter Garrett (right) opening the Drouin Path of Achievement alongside shuttlecock designer Rex Greenland of Drouin on December 3, 2009.
The Drouin Path of Achievement in Civic Park celebrates the sporting achievements of local sporting heroes.
The initiative began in 2008 with the aim of recognising 100 people. However, this figure quickly grew and the resulting path recognises 550 people involved in sport, recreation, sports administration and coaching in Drouin and district.
Project manager Leonie Blackwell spent many hours in consultation with schools and organisations, and many community groups were involved.
The project became a huge undertaking, with many stages completed over the ensuing years. This included metal sculptures, signature panels, art structures of sports balls, a huge metal shuttlecock, six large collage murals, the snaking serpent path, the mosaic serpent head and the volunteer painting of the path in 2014.
The first stage was opened by then Minister for Environment, Heritage and Arts Peter Garrett on December 3, 2009. This included the three-metre high metal shuttlecock that honours the district's badminton achievers.
Then Baw Baw Shire mayor Ruth McGowan said "Drouin area has excelled at producing stars on and off the field".
"This path is testament to how a community can come together selflessly to recognise its proud sporting history," Ms McGowan said.
The path begins at the mosaic serpent's head which was designed and built by Kurnai artists. It then winds its way uphill with artwork depicting Kurnai stories, totems, clans, sporting games, tree of strength, reconciliation and caring for country pictures.
The Path of Achievement book lists the names and achievements of all who have been honoured. The book is available for borrowing from the Drouin History Group.
The seven metal birds and one ring tailed possum along the track are emblems of local schools and sports clubs.
Sadly, the sign planned for the path was never made. However, as part of the Civic Park masterplan, seven interpretive signs were installed this year and unveiled on July 17. One of these is about the Path of Achievement.
Information courtesy of Friends of Drouin's Trees.