Nevertire Reservoir

The 21-metre-high reservoir has become a canvas for another shire mural, adding to the region's growing collection of public art installations. This new project follows the successful completion of the Nevertire Water Tower Mural, which was also undertaken by the talented artist Bastian Allfrey and officially unveiled in August 2022.

 The design of the Nevertire Water Tower Mural celebrates the vital role of agriculture in the community, depicting scenes that resonate with both residents and visitors. This mural features various elements of local agriculture, showcasing the rich farming heritage and the everyday lives of those who work the land. The imagery serves as a vibrant reminder of the importance of agriculture to the local economy and culture, providing both aesthetic pleasure and educational value to those who view it.

 The creation of the Nevertire Water Tower Mural was made possible through funding from the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3. This program supports economic development initiatives in communities within the Basin, aiming to strengthen and diversify local economies, particularly those affected by changes in water availability.

 This mural not only enhances the visual landscape of Nevertire but also highlights the community's pride in its agricultural roots. It is a significant addition to the public art repertoire of the area, fostering a sense of identity and place while attracting tourists who are eager to explore the region's unique cultural and economic contributions. Through such initiatives, the community continues to celebrate its heritage and promote the vital interplay between art, economy, and everyday life in the shire.

Stafford Street Water Tower

The Stafford Street Water Tower Mural was undertaken by the artist Bastian Allfrey and was officially unveiled in December 2021. This vibrant mural showcases various sporting activities that can be enjoyed by the community at the nearby Carter Oval Youth Sporting Precinct. The activities depicted include swimming, soccer, cricket, and skateboarding, reflecting the diverse range of sports available to local youth and promoting active lifestyles.

The creation of this mural was fully funded through a combination of government programs aimed at supporting regional arts and community development. These programs include the NSW Government’s Country Arts Support Program, which aims to boost cultural engagement in regional areas; the Australian Government’s Drought Communities Grant Extension Program, designed to provide economic stimulus to drought-affected communities; and the Murray-Darling Basin Economic Development Program Round 3, which supports economic development initiatives in communities within the Basin.

This collaborative funding effort underscores the importance of arts and sports in fostering community spirit and resilience, particularly in regional areas. The Stafford Street Water Tower Mural not only enhances the visual appeal of the area but also serves as a testament to the community's commitment to celebrating and encouraging active participation in sports.

Private Art on Public Property

Several public art murals were completed in July 2022, adding vibrant and meaningful artworks to various locations in the Shire.

Oxley Park Toilet Block Mural

This mural features a depiction of the Macquarie Marshes, highlighting native bird species such as the little egret, royal spoonbill, glossy ibis, and straw-necked ibis. The artwork celebrates the rich biodiversity of the region and aims to raise awareness about the importance of wetland ecosystems.

Macquarie Park Amenities Building Mural

An ANZAC tribute mural was created on the Macquarie Park amenities building. This mural honours the sacrifices of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps soldiers, providing a poignant reminder of the community's historical ties to ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day.

Public Art on Private Property Murals

Several designs were accepted by the Council for murals on private properties, enhancing the cultural landscape of the area:

JC’s Cotton Café: A mural featuring a cod, with the name of the fish written in both Wayilwan and English, facing Dubbo Street and the river. This artwork acknowledges the local indigenous language and the significance of the river ecosystem.

Royal Mail Cobb and Co Stagecoach Mural: Located on a prominent wall, this mural showcases an original image provided by Outback Pioneer Longreach, depicting the historic Cobb and Co stagecoach, a symbol of the region's pioneering history.

Collie Tennis Court Wall Mural: This mural depicts a pastoral scene with Hereford cattle and Merino sheep grazing alongside the Marthaguy Creek, reflecting the agricultural heritage and natural beauty of the area.

Nevertire Park Mural: The theme of this mural is young children playing, capturing the innocence and joy of childhood and promoting the importance of community and recreation spaces.

These murals collectively enrich the visual and cultural fabric of the community, celebrating its natural environment, historical significance, and the everyday lives of its residents.

Through these artistic endeavors, the shire continues to promote public art as a means of cultural expression and community engagement.