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Sparkly Bear Statue

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“Sparkly Bear? More like ‘Sadly Stolen Bear’,” the woman next to you mutters, shaking her head. Yes, here at Barkly Square shopping centre, a void remains where the beloved Sparkly Bear statue once greeted shoppers. This wasn’t just any bear. This life-sized brass sculpture depicted a bear, riding a tandem bike, radiating joy. It was installed in 2018, a commission from the centre’s owners to renowned Sydney-based sculptors Gillie and Marc Schattner. The artists, known for their whimsical animal sculptures, envisioned Sparkly Bear as a symbol of inclusivity, welcoming everyone to Barkly Square. Sadly, in September 2023, thieves with an angle grinder and a brazen plan made off with Sparkly Bear, leaving heartbroken locals and a $60,000 hole in the heart of Barkly Square. While the police investigation continues, the likelihood of Sparkly’s return remains dim. But the memory of this whimsical bear on his tandem bike lives on, a reminder that even in the face of loss, a little sparkle can leave a lasting impression.

After discovering the story of Sparkly Bear Statue in Melbourne, you may wonder how to explore even more of what this vibrant destination has to offer. Explory makes it simple: our digital guide gives you instant access to the city’s culture, history, and unique atmosphere. With our interactive city guide, you can uncover the background of Melbourne while following engaging routes designed for curious travelers. Whether you’re on a short trip or staying longer, Explory transforms your visit into a personalized city tour that connects stories with places in an intuitive way. Explory is more than just an ordinary travel tool – it is your companion for deeper exploration of Melbourne. Each guide combines expert storytelling with easy navigation, allowing you to discover well-known highlights and hidden gems that most visitors overlook. With the city guide, you can plan your route across landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural spots, all enriched by immersive audio storytelling. Our audio guide brings the atmosphere of Melbourne directly to your ears, making each step of your journey more meaningful. Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, history, or everyday culture, Explory helps you connect with the spirit of Melbourne. The carefully curated guide highlights what makes this city special, while the interactive city tour lets you explore on your own terms. Thanks to our focus on exploration and unique hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a travel experience that goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. Explory turns every visit into a memorable adventure where stories and places come alive. Download the Explory App now to continue your journey beyond Melbourne. Inside the app, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories waiting for you. Whether you are searching for a smart audio guide, planning your next city tour, or simply looking for inspiration through a rich guide, Explory is your key to exploring the world differently. Start today and unlock the full potential of Melbourne with Explory – your ultimate travel companion.

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