ABOVE: Two rather grand bronze cast statues marked the entrance to El Gronda arcade. Photos: Casino Historical Society
Susanna Freymark
Every few years since I’ve been reporting on news in the area, I get a call about the two statutes that stood at the El Gronda Arcade in Casino.
Do I know where they are? – I’m asked. I wish I did.
The bronze cast statues marked the entrance to the El Gronda Theatre, built in 1937.
The theatre was demolished and the cinema paradise was paved and replaced by a parking lot in 1972. (you don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone).
In my last search, I was told the statues were in Sydney in the suburbs of Roseville or Roseberry.
Someone else said they were buried in a backyard in Casino. I went to said backyard and the man at the house wasn’t impressed and definitely said they weren’t in his backyard.
So where are they? Do they still exist?
I like to think so.
Imagine if one or both were found. And a statue was returned to Casino. Wouldn’t that be something?
So, I’m looking again.
History buffs, sleuths – anyone who knows anything, please contact me at indynr.com@gmail.com
And do share this story. We never know who might read it and know something.
