Whittlesea Street and Public Art
Whittlesea's public art collection consists of more than 90 works created by contemporary artists in a variety of formats and materials. These installations explore and respond to themes such as local history, identity and the natural environment.
The public and street art includes:
Bundoora Area:
Light Rising by Christian Vine (VEINS) (2022)
This mural serves as an entry way to the municipality. The design references the residents love of open space and nature, the beautiful gum trees and Sulphur crested cockatoos that are often seen and heard in the area. The large rock formation on the LHS of the design portrays the nearby Plenty Gorge in Bundoora.
Location: Cnr Plenty Road and Settlement Road, Bundoora.
Os by Alexander Knox (2007)
A cluster of steel forms make a dynamic statement at the entrance to the Chancellor Domain. Striding through the landscape in counterpoint to age-old river red gums and the nearby creek. These sleek and sinuous configurations are built entirely from highly finished stainless steel: a material as beautiful as it is robust. The sculpture Os creates a complex play of light and reflections that beguilingly combine the environment, the viewer, the sun, and the sky.
Location: Worcester Park, Cnr Linacre Drive and Mammalia Drive, Bundoora
Wonder Walk by Al Stark (2020)
A series of 12 artworks were integrated into the design to form a trail at Norris Bank Play Space. The artworks are located on paving at key points throughout the play space. Each painting was designed as a stylised icon, to focus on raising awareness about the environment and sustainability, and of the importance of protecting biodiversity, ecology and the natural environment.
Location: Norris Bank Parklands, 63W McLeans Road, Bundoora
Kangaroo Paw Bird Song by Al Stark (assisted by Lilith Stark) (2022)
"This work is a continuation of a native flora and fauna series of visual poems. The composition and colour serve to complement its urban environment as well as offer a unique sense of wonder that also sits as an artwork giving passers-by a moment of pause and beauty. The colours in this work have been considered, designed and offered as a visual gift, a symbol of colour, form, and transcendence".
Location: 4 Nickson Street (Cnr Nickson Street and Dennison Mall), Bundoora
Donnybrook Area:
Spirit of Progress by David Wood (2020)
Using the moving train as both genesis for design and metaphor for progress and development, the sculpture fosters a sense of identity and pride with this place's specific history, Australian vernacular and cultural ethos. Made of Iron, the sculpture honours the importance of the train line's influence in Donnybrae's development.
The sculpture integrates seamlessly as an expressive response to its space. Sweeping arcs and curves represent undulating hills. A conical helix, takes form from volcanic vents and water rising. Two twisting planes dance as a willy willy evoking the notion of spirits. Adding historical depth, it reminds the community of its significant indigenous heritage. Woi Wurrung families came to this space to utilize a natural mineral spring and hunt. The spring is still active, the site retains its cultural significance.
Interpreting its immediate environment, subtle nods to farming tools and machines are present, illustrating the important historic development of primary production in this area during the late nineteenth century. Its duality reminding us of this place's past importance as a connection point between two great cities.
Location: 875 Donnybrook Road, Donnybrook
Doreen Area:
River Red Fractures by Henryk Topolnicki (2013)
These stylised Red gum sculptures are split into pieces, and seem nearly broken, but looking from a distance they form a whole. It still is one, strong and powerful River Red Gum. The series is about the fact that these ancient trees need careful water protection in order to live when they are encroached upon by urban development.
The artist said that the "silhouette of a singing bird perched on one of the branches is a reference, and a tribute, to the Aboriginal heritage of the site and estate name - Katandra Rise. Katandra is an Aboriginal word meaning "Song of the Birds".
Location: 38W Woorawa Drive, Doreen
Birds by Yvonne George (2005)
This work was inspired by the surrounding rural landscape, in particular the birds which are a major feature of this environment. As the seasons change and the wetlands recede birds like the ones seen in the artwork migrate to greener fields.
Location: Serle Wetland Park, 41W Serle Street, Doreen
Leaves by Yvonne George (2005)
In responding to the local environment artist Yvonne George has created these striking sculptural forms. Towering above the landscape they reflect the relationship between the man-made and the natural environment. The curved rusted steel is suggestive of industrial processes, while the copper leaves that sit atop the forms remind us of the cyclic aspects of nature and its seasons.
Location: Orchard Linear Park, 91W Orchard Road, Doreen
Ladies by Sam Barber (2002)
Two brushed metal svelte, stainless steel forms that seem to be having a conversation in the landscape.
Location: Orchard Park, 8W Orchard Road, Doreen
Swan by Sam Barber (2002)
A silver coloured brushed metal sculpture in the form of a stylised Swan.
Location: Orchard Park, 8W Orchard Road, Doreen
Interactive Burl by Kevin Free (2003)
Kevin Free found a remnant tree trunk onsite after the roads to the estate were built in 2002. At that time Free was commissioned to create a series of sculptures using timber from trees that had been removed to build roads for the Mitchell's Run Estate, Doreen. Free said that while he was visiting the site, he saw a remnant tree trunk with a burl in it, so he "did a little work on it, shaping it up a bit" with his chainsaw. Interactive Burl fits well with the artists other nature-inspired wooden works in the area.
Location: Mitchells Run Park, 9R Mitchells Run, Doreen
Two Brolgas by Kevin Free (2003)
The brolga is a water bird, well-known for its graceful poses and impressive courtship dances. Using reclaimed timber from the site the artist created an abstracted double brolga with heads angled skywards, the traditional pose of the birds in the mating season.
Location: Mitchells Run Park, 9R Mitchells Run, Doreen
Brolga Dance by Kevin Free (2003)
The brolga is a spectacular water bird, well-known for its impressive courtship dances. In depicting these birds artist Kevin Free has angled their heads skywards, the traditional pose of these birds in the mating season. These graceful birds integrate well into the site, due to their materiality and the verticality of their forms.
Free carved these birds from timber that was removed from the site when roads were constructed in the early stages of the estate's development.
Location: Mitchells Run Park, 9R Mitchells Run, Doreen
Wetland Habitat by Julie Edgar (2004)
Consists of 9 cast bronze relief panels assembled and mounted onto a silver coloured barred framework suspended between 2 wooden posts. 9 plates depict various native animals and birds frequently seen in the area, including a kookaburra, fish, spoonbill, tortoise, purple swamp hen, duck, echidna, yabby and a dragon fly. The objective was to complement the landscape rather than dominate it, giving the viewer an impression of the animals as they appear in the wetland habitat in the background, which is seen through the stainless-steel screen. The sculpture is a feature of the walking trail that runs alongside the wetland area.
Location: Laurimar Drainage Reserve, 200B Hazel Glen Drive, Doreen
Family Grouping by Kevin Free (2003)
Family Grouping is a skilful depiction of a prominent native bird species, the Spoonbill. Seen here are family of three, captured in quiet repose, their heads tucked close to their chests. In keeping with the local environment, the artist has carved each of the figures from a single tree trunk.
Location: Mitchells Run Park, 9R Mitchells Run, Doreen
The Old Horseman by Kevin Gilders (2006)
Inspired by the early pioneers of the district sculptor Kevin Gilders created this statue of a stockman. He carved a cypress tree stump onsite using a chainsaw, after the tree was removed during the park construction.
Located on the hilltop, the stockman surveys the landscape, across vistas of farmland, and north to the Kinglake Ranges. These days, due to urban development he surveys the rooftops of homes, families in the park, and cars. The work reminds us of the layers of history of the land.
Location: Hill Top Park, 70W Brookwood Avenue, Doreen
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: 13 Chaucer Way, Doreen
Epping Area:
Dianella Meeting Place by Mark Trinham (2019)
The beautiful artwork has been installed in Apex Park, Epping, which is located beside the Darebin Creek Pedestrian Trail on the corner of Greenbrook Drive and Peppercorn Parade.
The 5 ton basalt stone is carved with topographical markings of the Darebin Creek in Epping. The stone also refers to the long quarrying history of Epping, and the fact that the area is part of the largest (or 2nd largest) basalt stone deposit in the world - that runs from Beveridge to Red Rock, Alvie near Colac. The stainless steel and coloured perspex flower is the Dianella Matted Flax Lily that is an endangered species found in Epping. The carved wooden seat refers to the beautiful River Red Gums that are such an iconic feature of the area.
Location: Apex Park, 2W Greenbrook Drive, Epping
Meeting Place by Glenn Romanis and Mark Trinham (2016)
The design of this meeting place was informed by ideas that originated from community consultation with traders and local residents. The artwork features basalt stone seats with a carved Tussock Skink, an endangered lizard found in grasslands in the local area.
The stone relates to the quarrying history of Epping, and the fact that the area is part of the largest stone deposit in the world. The carved markings in the stone refer to the Darebin Creek which is located close by. One seat has a River Red Gum top that refers to the majestic River Red Gums that are an iconic feature of the municipality.
The leaf shaped backrest on the large seat is inlaid with Italian glass mosaic that reflects the long held European tradition of including mosaics in public areas, while also referring to the many European migrants who travelled to Australia and made Epping their home.
Location: 730 High Street, Epping
Heart Is Where The Home Is by Yvonne George (2017)
The design of this sculpture was informed by ideas that originated from community consultation held with local residents. The boat refers to Darebin Creek and also to migration. Many people have travelled from faraway lands to come to Australia and many of these people now call Epping home. The stone in the base of the boat refers to the immense basalt stone deposits found in the area and to the many quarries that were located in the area until recently. The birds speak to people' love of nature and the importance of valuing and caring for the natural environment. The heart is about Epping being a welcoming place for all, and a great place to call home.
Location: Darebin Creek Parklands, Corner of McDonalds Road and Davisson Street, Epping
Nesting - Floating Baby by Yvonne George (2006)
Based on an overarching theme of Nesting this series of three sculptures investigates themes including family, children and play and uses the Willy Wagtail bird as a symbol of whimsy and fun. The bird is commonly found in urban areas and acts as a playful agent connecting the three sculptures.
A figurative bronze sculpture of a woman reclining, her body a semi circular form. Holding a child up to her face, there's a sense of joy and wonderment, and in each of the three sculptures in the series there is a cheeky bird.
Location: Aurora Town Park, 889W Edgars Road, Epping
Nesting - Large Bird by Yvonne George (2006)
Based on an overarching theme of Nesting this series of three sculptures investigates themes including family, children and play and uses the Willy Wagtail bird as a symbol of whimsy and fun. The bird is commonly found in urban areas and acts as a playful agent connecting the three sculptures.
This figurative bronze sculpture depicts a large bird figure, its body curved in a semi circular position with its tail and beak facing inwards. A fantastical creature with a woman perched on top of its head.
Location: Aurora Town Park, 889W Edgars Road, Epping
Nesting - Father and Son by Yvonne George (2006)
Based on an overarching theme of Nesting this series of three sculptures investigates themes including family, children and play and uses the Willy Wagtail bird as a symbol of whimsy and fun. The bird is commonly found in urban areas and acts as a playful agent connecting the three sculptures.
Figurative bronze depicting a male figure, a Father sitting on the ground, with a child seated balanced on his knees. The father and son's arms are locked while a cheeky bird is perched atop the fathers head.
Location: Aurora Town Park, 889W Edgars Road, Epping
Pear Tree Wall by Al Stark (assisted by Lilith and Oskar Stark) (2022)
Rather than trying to impose a visual narrative over the corrugated surface of the wall, I used the linear forms to create a colour xylophone. Colours were based on the ornamental pear tree colours that line the footpaths and involved mixing 52 different colours to divide into the linear forms of the building. This design approach was able to create a beautiful rhythmic colour vibration that serves as an experience and joyful sense of wonder.
Location: Epping Views Family and Community Centre, 15 Lyndarum Drive, Epping
Banksia Moon by Al Stark (assisted by Lilith Stark) (2022)
Banksia Moon serves as a visual poem contemplating bird song and frenetic bush energy organically bursting from the existing brut architecture of Epping Memorial Hall. The line work, colour and composition have been considered to compliment and work within the park setting and pre-existing architecture.
Location: Epping Memorial Hall, 827 High Street, Epping
Colour Field by Konstantin Dimopoulos (2006)
Driven by wind and illuminated at night, Colour Field explores the natural beauty of the Aurora landscape - the subtle variations of colour in the grasslands that stretch beneath the Southern Lights.
Location: Sunrise Park, 2W Corbett Avenue, Epping
Aura by Anna Minardo (2006)
A mosaic entitled Aura is integrated into the top of a large outdoor picnic table. Constructed of thousands of kiln formed and hand cut pieces of glass, the mosaic forms a colourful backdrop for alfresco dining in Aurora Park, Epping North.
The "Dance of Life" in Aura depicts figures entwined in a musical embrace under a child's enchanted gaze. The design also features people dancing and two faces in side profile looking at each other to symbolise the good connections made between people, through dance, music, love and positive energy.
Location: Aurora Park, 110W Redding Rise, Epping
Arbour (Part 1 and Part 2) by Rudi Jass (2017)
These sculptures incorporate natural elements which currently exist within the local area and convert them into stylised built form. These abstract trees add an element of interest and bring together the natural and built form features of the site.
The human scale of the works enables people to view and admire them from ground level as well as adding some shade over the community space where they reside.
Location: Arbour (Part 1) - 3 Piazza Way, Epping, Arbour (Part 2) - 1 Forum Way, Epping
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: 100W Lyndarum Drive, Epping
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: Epping Memorial Hall, 827-835 High Street, Epping
Lalor Area:
Lalor Conversation by Bern Emmerichs (2015)
Bern Emmerichs says, "Painting for me is about storytelling, about illuminating the importance of obtaining knowledge through the narrative. Seduced by the beauty of ceramics from a young age and having worked in the medium for over thirty years, ceramics still fascinates and excites me. Along with its technical challenges and unpredictability, it is an ongoing exploration vehicle for the presentation and endeavour of my imagination."
These ceramic tile murals were commissioned to celebrate the rich cultural history and development of the suburb of Lalor.
Panel One pays respect to the Wurundjeri Willum Clan, the Traditional Owners and first peoples of this land. It portrays William Barak and his mother Tooterie, their culture and people, and their important role in the history of this place.
Panel Two celebrates Peter Lalor, after whom the suburb and walkway are named. It honours his achievements at the Eureka Stockade and his contribution to democracy in Australia.
Panel Three represents the German immigrant families of the 1850's who settled the land and established the original farms in Westgarthtown (the area now known as Lalor and Thomastown).
Panel Four represents two themes: those who settled in the area through the assistance of the Peter Lalor Homebuilding Cooperative Society and the culture and diversity of the contemporary Lalor community.
Location: Lalor Shopping Precinct - Peter Lalor Walk, 330 Station Street, Lalor
Lalor Conversations Part 2 by Bern Emmerichs (2018)
In 2017 the Lalor Conversation project was extended. Artist Bern Emmerichs was commissioned to select details from the four ceramic murals and these were reworked and printed onto metal, and then installed onto signage poles as an art and cultural heritage trail. The uniqueness and detailed cultural content of each of these works celebrates the layers of history of Lalor.
There are more than 45 of these artworks dotted through Lalor streets, parks and open spaces as well as the shopping precinct. Download a map to walk to all of the locations and see the entire collection of Lalor Conversations Part Two works. The walk to view all of these artworks takes approximately 1.5 hours if you are walking at a reasonable pace.
Location: Various sites within a 3km radius of Peter Lalor Walk, Station Street, Lalor (see link to map above)
Pride of Place by Jenny Steiner and Yvonne George (2004)
'Pride of Place' was commissioned in 2003 in order to improve the visual amenity of the side wall of Coles Supermarket in May Road Lalor, as residents who were consulted said they really disliked the big blank brick wall. After extensive consultation with the community the artwork was designed to focus on the main recurring theme which was a deep sense of 'community' and 'home'.
A common reason for settling in the Lalor area was the availability of inexpensive new housing on a separate block of land. Indeed many made reference to gravitating to a place where friends and family meet and where 'one person came and others followed'.
The design draws from the history of the area and the artists have used the floor plan from one of the houses of the Peter Lalor Garden Suburb built by the Peter Lalor home building co-operative society. They have represented the City as a growing municipality by the upward curve at the far end of the design and used an aerial map of the area to determine the organic shape of the Merri Creek represented here as a flowing element throughout the length of the mural.
Other elements of the design represent the Road to Lalor, a journey which members of the community undertook to arrive there. The heart of the sculpture is the 'kitchen' plan of Peter Lalor's home, a place where most communication and interaction takes place. The artists have worked with repetitive colours and horizontal lines to tie together geometric shapes and reflect the contemporary look of the library opposite.
Location: Lalor Shopping Precinct, 47-71 May Road, Lalor
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: Edgars Creek Parklands, 68W Robert Street, Lalor
Mernda Area:
Halcyon by Nick Hackett, Mary Hackett and Amanda Gibson (2011)
The artwork Halcyon, is a reminder of the environment, a visual marker, and a symbol of peace and prosperity.
Halcyon is a reminder of the environment by its very presence. Todiramphus Sanctus (or Halcyon Sanctas) is the sacred kingfisher which is indigenous to the area. It is a bird that is hoped will return to the area and again sit in the river red gums watching for its prey. The gesture of the artwork rises from the water as a hope that it will be seen rising from the Plenty River once again. The colours of the sculptures plumage made in copper, brass and titanium are a reference to the brilliant colours of the sacred kingfisher.
With the striking colours and the uplifting sweep of the kingfisher rising from the water the artwork is also a visual marker of an attitude of jubilation. It connects the community and again brings a spirit of hope.
Location: Pomaderris Linear Park, 90W Breadalbane Avenue, Mernda
Horses On The Hill by Nicholas Dunnand (2005)
Three large standing horses located at the entrance to the Children's Adventure Playground at Mernda. Each horse is a different colour and shown in various poses. The horses are brightly coloured and are constructed of galvanised pipe outlines with pierced metal mesh covering the bodies of the horses.
Location: Mernda Villages Wetlands, 146W Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Lying Horse with Seat Tail by Miriam Porter (2005)
A Redgum sculpture of a horse shown reclining and lying on its side in a position reminiscent of rolling in sand. The head and front legs of the horse are shown swivelled up and ready to turn the body over. There are horseshoes on both front legs.
Location: Mernda Villages Wetlands, 146W Mernda Village Drive, Mernda
Mill Park Area:
The Jayda Flower by Tim Read (2021)
The Jayda Flower is part of a series of artworks by artist Tim Read from Tread Sculptures Pty Ltd, that were integrated into the new Mill Park All Abilities Play Space, completed in May 2021. The artist responded to themes centred around caring about climate change, supporting biodiversity and the importance of environmental sustainability. He is passionate about the need to look after the natural environment, and this is a core message in his artworks. Tim Read specialises in using recycled steel and recycled machinery components as part of his sculptures.
In "The Jayda Flower" the flower head is made from 100% recycled metal. The centre of the bud is an old cement mixer and the petals are all cut from an old diesel storage tank.
This particular project also appealed to the artist as he is an advocate for making accessible play spaces, so that people of all abilities can enjoy them.
Tim Read said "This flower is dedicated to 9 year old Jayda Mohr. Jayda has Angelman Syndrome and like this flower she is beautiful, strong, tenacious and makes her presence known. Thank you Jayda for helping us embrace the unknown and finding beauty in everything and everyone".
Location: All Abilities Play Space, 29W Morang Drive, Mill Park
Twinkle Twinkle Sensory Bollards by Tim Read (2021)
These steel bollards have tactile laser cut and welded surface imagery that can be enjoyed through the senses of sight, sound, and touch. The artist has included welded steel braille messaging on the surface.
These sensory bollards were created so that anyone can 'play' them by hitting or tapping the top surfaces to create sounds. Each bollard creates a note. With practice the bollards can be struck or tapped in a certain order which will sound out a version of Mozart's "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star." Alternately people can create their own rhythmic sound compositions.
Location: All Abilities Play Space, 29W Morang Drive, Mill Park
Fruits of the Vine 1 by Tim Read (2021)
This work is one in a series of artworks that were designed and integrated into the new Mill Park All Abilities Play Space, completed in May 2021. Artist Tim Read creates sculpture that focuses on creative upcycling and reuse in order to reduce waste and show that materials can have various forms and life cycles.
Tim Read's works draw attention to environmental messaging and themes such as supporting biodiversity, protecting the natural environment and reducing waste. Insects play an important role as pollinators in food production and this work conveys this message by showing two butterflies, vines and flowers.
Location: All Abilities Play Space, 29W Morang Drive, Mill Park
Long Live the Queen by Tim Read (2021)
This work is part of a series of artworks designed for the Mill Park All Abilities Play Space, completed in May 2021. Artist Tim Read from Tread Sculptures Pty Ltd specialises in upcycling and reuse of salvaged metal as materials to create sculpture. Many of the materials Tim Read uses are salvaged items discarded by industry which he then assembles into plant forms, insects, birds and other amazing creatures.
"Long Live the Queen" is mounted high on the front of a large play tower. Several worker bees with industrial cog like eyes, build their honeycomb and try to protect their queen.
This and other artworks by Tim Read in the play space humanise and add to the visual appeal of the play equipment while also reinforcing messaging about the important role bees and insects play especially as pollinators for our food production.
Location: All Abilities Play Space, 29W Morang Drive, Mill Park
Brolgas and eggs by Kevin Free (2003)
Artist Kevin Free uses the three dimensional quality of sculpture to reveal the complex layers of meaning in nature. Using reclaimed timber from the area, Kevin has celebrated the Brolga in a series of works in the Municipality (see Mitchell's run Doreen).
The Brolga is a water bird, well-known for its graceful poses and impressive courtship dances. Brolgas mate for life. Here they are depicted caring for their eggs with their heads angled skywards, the traditional pose of the birds in the mating season.
Location: Redleap Reserve, 3-37 Redleap Avenue, Mill Park
Autumn Leaves by Rudi Jass (2009)
The overall design of these artworks by Rudi Jass was based on leaf motifs for a number of reasons. Members of the local community were consulted and asked for ideas about suitable themes for the artwork at the Centre. They said they wanted the artworks to reflect the importance of the natural environment and environmental sustainability. Residents said that there are many trees in local gardens that have beautiful coloured leaves in Autumn, and that these trees originated from many different countries. This leaf was chosen by the Artist Rudi Jass as a metaphor to reflect diversity and the fact that Mill Park residents come from many diverse cultural backgrounds.
Location: Mill Park Community Centre, 11 Mill Park Drive, Mill Park
Connecting to energy from within by Ray Thomas (2021)
A digital print with ceramic ink fused on glass. Approximately 60 glass panels with artwork by Ray Thomas printed on them form the main entrance roof canopy of Mill Park Leisure Centre. The artwork shows figures depicted in various postures and states of physical activity, surrounded by lines that are like topographical mapping of the land and/or ripples in water. The design broadly responds to themes including health and wellbeing, activity and energy, water, land and place.
The panels were created via a new process that uses a digital glass printer and ceramic ink to reproduce artwork on glass.
When viewed from below by people walking into the entrance, the figures and markings of land and/or water are set with the sky as a background. Depending on the weather, and/or the time of the day, the artwork changes as does the sky.
Location: Mill Park Leisure Centre, 33 Morang Drive, Mill Park
Transmutation by Yvonne George (co design Ray Thomas) (2021)
Laser cut, powder coated aluminium. As part of the refurbishment of Mill Park Leisure Centre, an artistic collaboration took place. Artworks were created by Yvonne George and Ray Thomas for the facade of Mill Park Leisure Centre. Ray Thomas's multi walled mural "The Fluidity of Energy" and "Transmutation", the adjacent metal screens by Yvonne George (co designed by Ray Thomas) flow into each other and tell a connected story about Place.
The design of the screens were inspired by the energy, reflection and movement of water, and they also visually refer to topographical mapping of the land.
Artist Yvonne George said, the name "Transmutation" came from the meaning of, action to change, which has a very broad meaning that fits perfectly to the inspiration behind the screens and the building itself.
After finalising the design many hours were spent to get the drawing ready for laser cutting, hours spent developing every detail, from design to folding lines to give a seamless flow to the pattern.
These screens were the first ever made by the Artist, who usually works to create three dimensional sculptures in the round for public spaces and private collections. The reflections on the windows dance and enhance the design. You can see the design break up as it flows across into the mural.
Location: Mill Park Leisure Centre, 33 Morang Drive, Mill Park
The Fluidity of Energy within by Ray Thomas (2021)
Exterior acrylic paint. Ray Thomas is the lead artist who worked on the Mill Park Leisure Centre refurbishment project, completed in 2021. He created a number of public art works for the centre, including this dramatic and eye-catching mural on the Morang Drive facade. The mural extends along the facade, then wraps around the corner of the building onto another wall, and onto a Pagoda at the entry to Plenty Valley Health.
Titled, "The Fluidity of Energy", the mural was designed to represent themes including water, health, energy, land and place. Flowing lines on the mural are a cross between representing topographical mapping of the land and/or ripples found on the surface of water.
Ray Thomas is a Gunnaikurnai man whose work is represented in many public collections including the NGV. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including winning the top prize, the "Deadly Art Award" at the Indigenous Art Awards in 2013 for a portrait he painted of his mother Alice.
Adjacent to the mural are large metal privacy screens by Yvonne George (co designed with Ray Thomas). The screens are made from laser cut powder coated aluminium.
The title of the privacy screens is: "Transmutation", (meaning to change from one thing into another).
Location: Mill Park Leisure Centre, 33 Morang Drive, Mill Park
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: Mill Park Stadium Forecourt, 1 Redleap Avenue, Mill Park
South Morang Area:
The Guardian by Damian Vick (2020)
'The Guardian' celebrates the connection between humanity and nature. It evokes a sense of calm wonder and demonstrates how the natural world affects our sense of well being. It acts as a reminder of the fragile beauty of the environment and our responsibility to protect it.
Location: Hillsview Recreation Reserve, 100W The Great Eastern Way, South Morang
Take Your Seat at the Great Banquet of Life by Kevin Gilders (1998)
Situated on a roundabout outside the front of the Plenty Ranges Art & Convention Centre (adjacent to Council's Civic Centre), this bench seat was made from a carved tree trunk or limb of a tree that was removed as part of the development of a housing estate in Mill Park near Morang Drive. One street is named after Australian historian Manning Clark, who wrote a highly celebrated, major history of Australia. The back of the bench seat is carved with the words of a quote by Manning Clark which says, "TAKE YOUR SEAT AT THE GREAT BANQUET OF LIFE - MANNING CLARK 1915 - 91".
Location: Civic Precinct, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
Sorry Space by Glenn Romanis (2014)
The Sorry Day Marker design has a teardrop shaped stone base representing pain and loss but also tears of joy, if and/or when members of the Stolen Generation were reunited with their family members.
The centre of the design is paved with ochre coloured Castlemaine Slate, surrounded by a band of bluestone. Topographical lines mapping country are carved into the stone, representing Darebin Creek and Plenty River.
The design incorporates the Sorry Day plaque, two large leaf-shaped Red gum seats and a plinth to hold a carved wooden bowl that is bought out and used for smoking ceremonies on National Sorry Day.
Location: Civic Precinct, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang
The Frog or Habitat 1 by Rudi Jass (2006)
Represents animals in the area. The Growling Frog is depicted in bronze in its natural habitat, with the stainless steel representing the Plenty River and the lower rectangle representing the square parkland.
Location: Bellevue Park, 1W Bloomfield Drive, South Morang
The Eagle by Rudi Jass (2006)
Represents animals in the area. The Wedgetail Eagle's beak is represented in the form of the base and the stainless steel shaped form above represents the circular hovering of the eagle through the air.
Location: Bellevue Park, 1W Bloomfield Drive, South Morang
Billabong and Flora & Fauna of Plenty Gorge by Cathy Adams and Libby McKinnon (2002)
Designed in consultation with the Kulin Nation Cultural Heritage Organisation.
The Kulin Nation Cultural Heritage Organisation and a group of young Koori people led by Cathy Adams from Urban Colours were consulted about the design of this mosaic. Cathy Adams completed a drawing of the Plenty River flowing with paths, flower and footprints that informed the final design, showing the platypus, fish and long necked tortoises which live in the Plenty Gorge area.
Location: Riverside Reserve, 8 Doreen Rogen Way, South Morang
Wombat Family by Des McKenna (2008)
The artist created a family of three wombats by using a chainsaw to carve seasoned timber. He used reclaimed timber from trees that were removed in order to make roads when the estate was established. The wombats were installed into the South Morang Recreation Reserve in Mill Park Lakes in early October 2008.
Location: Mill Park Lakes Recreation Reserve Playground, 10 Pretty Valley Grove, South Morang
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: 245 Gordons Road, just north of Nicola Davis Conservation Reserve, South Morang
Thomastown Area:
Local Scroll by Phibs and Deb (2010)
Phibs and Deb worked with students from Thomastown Secondary College at two design information workshops. Students chose themes of local relevance to be included in the mural and have their feedback on the design.
The mural has a narrative of images including a local footballer, a cricketer, a house to represent the love of home, a woman and child gardening, two hands holding (one dark skinned, one light), a flying cockatoo, blossom trees, and a small eye to keep "evil eyes" and bad energy away.
Location: Thomastown Recreation & Aquatic Centre (TRAC) rear facade, 54 Main Street, Thomastown
Reflection - Here's Looking At You by Karen Casey (2010)
The design of the artwork draws attention to the reflective qualities of water, movement and change. There are approximately 150 hand cut mirrored glass tiles in the mural. These are constructed in the pattern of DNA, in this case to reflect individual identities and the connectedness of the community.
The original concept for the work was established in response to community consultation with students at Thomastown Secondary College. The students said "We would like interesting art, art that is not static, art that changes".
Location: Thomastown Recreation & Aquatic Centre (TRAC), 54 Main Street, Thomastown
Ripple by Karen Casey (2010)
At the top of the building's facade is the signature artwork for the Thomastown Recreation & Aquatic Centre. This piece, titled Ripple was designed to reflect the pulsing energies of water, its importance in the cycles of life and the presence of this elemental force within our environment and community.
At night time Ripple is an illuminated beacon that pulses rhythmically before the evening sky, a significant presence at this prominent public facility.
According to the artist, "My work at TRAC is a response to the theme 'Reflections of Thomastown'. In keeping with the reflective nature of water, waves or ripple effects were key elements in the artworks along with the idea of reflecting the Thomastown community."
Location: Thomastown Recreation & Aquatic Centre (TRAC), 54 Main Street, Thomastown
Carrington Children's Activity Centre Mural by Hayden Dewar (2022)
The artist met with teachers, carers and staff to develop the mural for this centre. This compilation of images includes and reflects things that inspire children and their learning; things like nature, play, making things, socialising with friends and family and having fun. Birds and insects that visit the centre have been included in Hayden's imagery.
Location: 62 Carrington Boulevard, Thomastown
Unofficial War Memorial by Yvonne George (2021)
As part of Council's Thomastown streetscape improvements project for the Thomastown Activity Centre, two additional public open spaces were included - the new forecourt entrance to the Thomastown Primary School and the re-design of the Thomastown War Memorial site.
The new unofficial War Memorial has been designed to be seen from the street and to encourage pedestrians to come and visit the site and appreciate the plaques beneath the trees in the Avenue of Honour commemorating twenty-one servicemen from the Thomastown district.
Location: Opposite Thomastown Primary School, 150-170 High Street, Thomastown
Our Centre Is Our School by Suzi Duncan and Grade 5/6 Thomastown Primary School Students (2021)
This mural was created by students from three Grade 5/6 composite classes at Thomastown Primary School in 2021. The students drew images that they felt represent the 32 different countries that their families came from, and also images that reflect their lives and special places in Thomastown. A drawing of the original primary school building is included in the design symbolizing the centre of their community.
Location: Side wall of 175 High Street, Thomastown
Nick Ascenzo Centre Murals by Shawn Lu (2022)
Murals were designed and created by the artist for 3 external walls of the Centre. These murals celebrate Thomastown and its residents from early settlement, to the development of local industries and as a homage to the famous Thomastown Industrial Estate, and of course the community's love for family, friendship, and food.
Location: Nick Ascenzo Community Centre, 2 Boronia Street, Thomastown
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: Highlands Road, Near the corner of 235 High Street, Thomastown
Collectively Caring for Climate by local residents
A series of murals featuring the climate pledges made by community.
Location: HR Uren Reserve, 62 Carrington Boulevard, Thomastown
Whittlesea & Surrounds Area:
The Grand Parade | 150th Whittlesea Agricultural Society Show Commemorative Artwork by Geoff Hocking (2015)
This sculpture celebrates the rich agricultural history of the Whittlesea district, the pioneering farming families and those that followed who played a significant role in the establishment of the Colony of Victoria. They recognised the district was abundant in resources - the rivers and flood plains for meat and dairying, the rolling hills for wool and orchards, the basalt plains for grain and stone for quarrying and construction, and the mountains for timber.
The Whittlesea Agricultural Society and its annual show, founded in 1859, provide the platform to encourage excellence in farming and associated industries, drawing together the community in competition and display, and in the spirit of fellowship. The tradition continues.
The sculpture was a collaborative project commissioned by the City of Whittlesea and the Whittlesea Agricultural Society. It was unveiled by City of Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Ricky Kirkham, and President of the Whittlesea Agricultural Society Inc. John Kreitling, on 30 May 2015.
Location: Whittlesea Showgrounds, 30 Yea Road, Whittlesea
Wollert Area:
Golden Sun Moth by Benjamin Gilbert (2012)
Based on the sensitive flora of the site, the endemic Golden Sun-moth artworks celebrate the intertwined lives of plants and beasts.
The moth lives on the roots of the Matted Flax Lily, a gesture of consideration of the environment and a reminder of the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Location: Regional Recreation Reserve, Champions Parade, Wollert
Suitcases by "Kooper Tasmania": Folko Kooper & Maureen Goulding (2020)
A series of carved stone suitcases celebrate the ethnic diversity of residents by referring to the fact that many people from diverse cultural backgrounds choose to make their home in Wollert. The suitcases are created and carved from Australian stone and also function as bench seats.
Location: 2W Portofino Way, Wollert
Kangaroo Play Sculpture by Benjamin Gilbert (2013)
"The kangaroo play element was created as a response to the site's recent history, as a grazing plain for a large population of grey kangaroos". The grey kangaroo play element is like a totem that expounds the natural value of the site.
Location: Fulham Park, 48W Fulham Way, Wollert
Dianellas (Epping Road) by Benjamin Gilbert (2011)
These towering eight-metre high sculptures draw attention to the Matted Flax Lilly an endangered species found in the area. Another endangered species, the Golden Sun Moth lives at the roots of the Matted Flax Lily.
Ground Control Landscape Architecture (GCLA) integrated large sculptural drystone walls into the site near the sculptures. These walls refer to the farming history of the land, and to the times when many drystone walls were found in the area.
Location: 126D Harvest Home Road (corner of Harvest Home Road and Epping Road), Wollert
Dianellas (Champions Parade) by Benjamin Gilbert (2011)
This series of towering eight metre high stainless steel sculptures depict Dianella Amoena, or Matted Flax Lilies, an endangered species that is found in the area.
Location: 130W Harvest Home Road (corner of Champions Parade and Harvest Home Road), Wollert
Little Dianella by Benjamin Gilbert (2012)
This stainless steel sculpture depicts Dianella Amoena, or Matted Flax Lilies, an endangered species that is found in the area.
Small Golden Sun Moths perched on the stem and leaves of the Dianella emphasise the co dependence of species. The Golden Sun Moth lives at the roots of the Dianella. This sculpture subtly reminds us of the need to value, protect and preserve biodiversity so that The Golden Sun Moth and Dianella's do not become extinct.
Location: Fulham Park, 48W Fulham Way, Wollert
Curly Sedge by "Kooper Tasmania": Folko Kooper & Maureen Goulding (2020)
The designs of the Curly Sedge sculpture were inspired by Curly Sedge Grass which grows in the area, and Curly Sedge Creek, a stream that runs through the Northern region of Melbourne, and alongside Rathdowne Estate.
Curly Sedge grass has a unique and interesting form, which the sculpture emulates. The two sculptures work together frame the pathway and entry to Rathdowne Central Park.
Location: 2W Portofino Way, Wollert
Map of Street Art Locations:
Web Links
→ Whittlesea Arts Website
