Bathurst architect Henry Bialowas came up with the winning design for the bicentennial flagstaff, to be built over a toilet block in Bicentennial Park.

It will mark the spot where Governor Lachlan Macquarie proclaimed the new settlement of Bathurst in 1815.

Surveyors and historians agreed on the exact location following extensive study of maps and texts from the time.

When it was decided removing the toilet block that now stands there would too expensive, Mr Bialowas created a design that would allow the flagstaff to be erected on the same site as the original, standing on an elevated platform offering stunning views over the Macquarie River.

Now council has also agreed to take up Mr Bialowas’ offer to create a model of the winning design that can be put on public display.

Councillor Gary Rush said the model would be an ideal way to start engaging with the community in the lead-up to the 2015 celebrations.

“The model will be a miniature replica of what will be our permanent 2015 monument,” Cr Rush said.

“It is something that will be capable of being moved around to schools and community functions to commence that engagement with the community.

Cr Jess Jennings also supported funding the model to show the community what they would be getting as a permanent bicentennial monument.

“It’s good professional practice for items of such significance,” he said.

“It will become, most likely, a valued artefact of the history of Bathurst in its own right.

“This is a great opportunity to engage the Bathurst community about 2015 and Bathurst’s 200 years.

“The clock is now ticking down to the big event.”

Corporate services and finance director Bob Roach said the flagstaff model, once completed, would be put on display at the Bathurst Library and Art Gallery and council chambers, as well as at community events.

The flagstaff model will cost $3900 plus GST, to be funded from the $250,000 set aside by council for the region’s bicentennial celebrations.