Southbank’s new Queen Bee creating a buzz at Riverside Quay

A request to developer Mirvac to extend artist Richard Stringer’s iconic Eureka Tower colony of bees installation has resulted in a new Queen Bee making itself at home on Mirvac’s 2 Riverside Quay.

Mr Stringer’s original Queen Bee sculptures were created for a series of studio works in 2003 and 2004, before notably making their home on iconic builds.

Following their interest in the artwork, architecture firm Fender Katsalidis commissioned a large-scale version of a colony of bees to be installed on their Eureka Tower design.

Now in an effort to revitalise the Riverside Quay precinct, Mirvac has followed suit with their own extension of the artwork at the building’s entrance.

“When Fender Katsalidis came to us with the idea of extending the artwork, we were keen to be involved,” general manager of office at Mirvac Andrew Butler said.

“Recently, we have lodged a planning permit application to bring to life a vibrant rooftop venue at the precinct, set to be the crowning glory for the precinct, adding an incredibly unique and unparalleled attraction to an already popular destination.”

The tenants of the building where the new bee is situated are PwC and Fender Katsalidis, and PwC’s Melbourne managing partner Peter Konidaris said his team was thrilled to see the extension in place.

“This iconic art highlights the incredible talent of Richard Stringer and pays homage to the world-class arts and culture scene at the heart of Melbourne,” Mr Konidaris said.

The most recent additions to the colony in 2019 were announced with a grand opening celebration with Eureka residents, and Lord Mayor Sally Capp was in attendance to unveil the lit-up display of the colony.

Following the latest expansion of the friendliest bees in Southbank, Cr Capp expressed her delight and its importance in the precinct.

“Precincts like Riverside Quay are places for people to come together and enjoy public art that is quintessentially Melbourne,” she said.

“I applaud the team behind extending what is a wonderful sculpture that delights tourists and locals alike.” •