From a graffitied drainpipe to the beautification of Murnong Creek – a new mural project at Lions Memorial Park in Riddells Creek is transforming an eyesore into an inspiring celebration of nature, art and local collaboration.
Riddells Creek Lions Club worked along two local artist, Lyn Hovey and Jarryn Pitts, to convert a graffitied structure into an artwork celebrating the natural environment of Murnong Creek, formerly known as the Riddells Creek Main Drain.
The project has been worked on for many years, and has experienced challenges.
“It has been several years in the making,” the project supporters said.
Determining ownership and jurisdiction of the site involved lengthy discussions between multiple authorities. Changes in personnel, competing priorities, volunteer availability, health challenges and holiday periods all contributed to delays and frustrations.
“There were times when we joked about meeting at midnight and simply starting the work ourselves,” volunteers admitted.
“But we knew the preparation alone would take days before even the first undercoat could be applied.”
Designed to be visible from both the footpath and passing traffic, the mural depicts local birdlife, flora and fauna commonly found around streams that feed into Riddells Creek.
Following from the left side of the mural to the right side, tells a story from dawn to dusk, with the the colours changing to depict the time of day. The story is led by a flock of sulphur-crested cockatoos flying across the sky at dawn. They then pass by some white-faced herons, galahs, superb blue wrens, and finishes with the cockatoos sitting in a tree with the light of dusk on them.
Children who visit the park will be able to recognise species they see around their homes and develop a greater appreciation of the connection between healthy ecosystems and thriving communities.
The artwork will complement the surrounding landscape, and community groups envisage further public artworks in the area soon.
Pictured (left to right) are Robin Miller, Suzie Laurie, Melanie Kinsey, Jarryn Pitts, Lyn Hovey and Wolly the dog.
