TWENTY-one year old artist Rebekah Brown is currently putting the final touches on the pop art-inspired masterpiece, which is described as bold, quirky and a little bit controversial.
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The sculpture gives a nod to the region’s vibrant and colourful local landmarks, icons and people, with references to all the elements of local news and events - weather sport, politics, schools, business and community.
Miss Brown, who also happens to be a nursing student at Southern Cross University, said once complete it would "represent everything unique to our area".
"Hopefully, people will stop and explore all the detail - and love having their photo taken with the Port News koala," she said.
Editor Gordon Wiegold promised the finished koala will be “very memorable”.
"It wouldn't be the Port News' koala if it didn't get people talking.”