Playgrounds, Parks and Beaches

This bronze head and shoulder bust was created by artist Ken Martin as a tribute to Charles James (Jimmy) Melrose (1913-1936). Raised on Glenelg’s Esplanade at Glenwood Mansions (now Melrose Apartments), Jimmy captivated the world with his aviation exploits across the globe. He established several Australian flying records and set world records, all within 3 short years. Tragically, on 5 July 1936, aged 22, Jimmy died on a charter flight from Melbourne to Darwin when his Heston Phoenix broke up over South Melton, Victoria in turbulent conditions. His death sent shock waves around the world as people mourned their 'chivalrous young knight of the air'.

The Rhythm sculpture is thought to be Glenelg first public artwork commissioned by the City of Glenelg in 1978. This artwork is iconic to Glenelg and many people feel a connection with the piece. Johns said, “I feel that the sculpture remains an important work of mine: two waves intersect, creating a 3D form. This is a conceptual notion I have used extensively in my career and Rhythm was the first permanent work in which it was used”