A local family, deeply moved by the care their mother has received at a Highfields aged care community, has generously donated a unique sculpture to Carinity Brownesholme. The artwork, named The Family Tree, was a heartfelt gift from the family of Margot Cox OAM.
Designed by Margot’s son, Cyril Cox, the sculpture was inspired by his desire to explore his family’s roots. Crafted by Crookwell artist Norm Porter, the piece incorporates recycled materials, including stainless-steel balls originally used as high-voltage arcing horns in the Snowy Hydro Scheme. These horns, installed in the 1950s, were vital in protecting electrical equipment from damage.
Cyril shared, “I asked Norm to use the arcing horns I had stored in my shed. My son removed them after they were no longer needed.” The sculpture also includes galvanized steel piping and a farm plough disc, representing the Cox family’s rural heritage and strong ties to regional Australia.
“The sculpture reflects our family’s deep connection to the land,” Cyril explained. “Our late father owned a cattle station in Katherine, and all of us grew up with a background in agriculture and equestrian activities.”
Standing 1.5 meters tall, The Family Tree now takes pride of place in Carinity Brownesholme’s foyer as a gesture of gratitude for the care Margot has received since moving in last year. Cyril praised the facility, saying, “Brownesholme is a beautiful place with outstanding staff who care deeply for all the residents, including our mother.”
Margot, originally from Toowoomba, has embraced the community at Carinity Brownesholme. She enjoys colouring pictures and sharing them with visitors and new residents. Her lifelong commitment to community service was recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia for her contributions in Palmerston, Northern Territory before she relocated to Kleinton.
