Member statement

Barraport’s John Piccoli was a farmer and sculptor whose work in Boort has been enjoyed by many people.

Ms MAXWELL (Northern Victoria) (10:26):

I rise to pay tribute to the life of John Piccoli of Barraport, fondly known as the ‘Spanner Man’.

I had the great pleasure to meet John and his wife, Sonia, during a visit to Barraport on April 6. I was very grateful for the time they spent with me, along with the Loddon Shire mayor Neil Beattie, to give me a personal tour of John’s work on display through the grounds of their property.

John Piccoli contracted polio at the age of eight, spending three years in hospital, and he was confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Despite the physical constraints, he successfully farmed his family’s third-generation property until retiring and embarking on his famous artistic journey.

John showed me his workshop and his abundant collection of spanners, from which he formed the most incredible sculptures. I was amazed by John’s capacity and creativity in crafting his work without drawn plans and using blocks and pulleys to manoeuvre himself. Spanner sculptures have become a significant tourism drawcard for Boort, to the enjoyment of many thousands of people.

John struck me as a humble man who was proud of his family and his work. I offer Sonia and his family and friends my condolences.