Looking South. 10 Watkins Street was bought by Housing Commission on 30 June 1970 and demolished on 30 September 1970. The purchase price was $11,750. This property was not under a demolition or repair order. The Fitzroy Residents’ Association cleared all rubbish from the site, planted trees (despite Housing Commission opposition) and stated their intention to construct a playground on the site. On Sunday 15 August 1971, the Fitzroy Residents’ Association held a combined rally addressed by Mr David Bronstein (MLA Brunswick East). Three hundred people marched down Nicholson Street to 10 Watkins Street, where Worker Student Alliance members burnt an effigy of the Housing Commission. The sculpture, symbolising the crucifixion of the residents by the Housing Commission, was erected. A petition calling for a Royal Commission into the activities of the Housing Commission was signed. [Sources: Melbourne Times 18 August 1971 & interviews]. (Text from Yarra Libraries)
