Government is seeking ideas for a memorial to those lost at sea.

Yesterday Transport Minister Ewart Brown said print media adverts would appear this week inviting people to submit possible designs for the memorial.

Entries can take the form of a montage, plans, sketches or models. There will also be a $5,000 bonus for the successful applicant. However, Dr. Brown stressed the payment was a ?minor incentive?, adding his Ministry wanted as much involvement from the artistic community as possible on the ?national project?.

The site of the memorial will be Great Head park, also known as the old St. David?s Battery. Dr. Brown said the Ministry hoped to announce the winning artist in the new year.

?Earlier this year this Government expressed its commitment to build a memorial, largely in part due to the tragedy that befell the ,? Dr Brown said. ?The misfortune of this vessel took the lives of local sons Micah Battersbee and Allen Edness when the boat capsized in rough seas.

?It is our aim to create a memorial which conveys warmth and solace for family members who have lost loved ones due to a seafaring tragedy. I know we have some very talented artists within our community and I am encouraging all resident artists to consider submitting their ideas and designs for this national project.

?We are looking for a design that will accurately depict Bermuda?s long, historical seafaring tradition.?

Submissions must be entered by January 5, 2004, and the successful applicant will be chosen by a memorial committee. Applicants can pick up information package forms at the Ministry of Transport on the third floor of Global House on Church Street. For more information contact the Department of Communication and Information at 292-5998.