Stratford - Water Tower Art
The Stratford Water Tower has been transformed into a spectacular piece of public art celebrating First Nations culture and the importance of protecting waterways.
The artwork, Cultural Flow, was designed by Gunnai artist Alice Pepper and brought to life on the water tower by renowned mural artist Adnate.
Commissioned by Gippsland Water, the mural was completed in December 2024 and officially launched in February 2025.
Stratford was selected for Gippsland Water's first major First Nations public art installation because of the area's cultural significance to the Gunaikurnai people.
The Story Behind Cultural Flow:
The artwork celebrates the strong connection between First Nations people, Country and waterways, while highlighting the responsibility of present and future generations to care for the environment.
The mural contains numerous symbols and stories:
- Borun the pelican: Represents the Gunaikurnai people and their ancestral connections to Country.
- Wahyang the spoonbill: Represents Gippsland Water and its partnership with Traditional Owners to care for waterways.
- Blue waterways: Symbolise clean, healthy water and the importance of protecting it for future generations.
- Rock formations: Represent the Ancestors and their continuing presence and guidance.
- Traditional markings: Inspired by grinding stones once used to sharpen tools for fishing.
- Meeting places: Represent locations where Ancestors gathered beside waterways for ceremonies, sharing knowledge and cultural traditions.
- Children and Elders: Symbolise the passing of stories, knowledge and cultural traditions between generations.
Visiting the Water Tower:
The colourful water tower is a prominent landmark near the Princes Highway at Stratford.
The artwork is on an operational water tower rather than within a purpose-built tourist attraction. Visitors can appreciate the mural from surrounding public areas, but there is no advertised public access inside the tower.
There is no confirmed dedicated visitor parking or viewing area. Only stop where it is safe and legal to do so, and do not enter restricted water authority property.
Review:
Cultural Flow is a striking addition to Stratford's public art, with its vibrant blue colours and impressive scale making the water tower particularly eye-catching.
The artwork is much more than a decorative mural. Its layers of cultural symbolism provide an opportunity for families to learn about Gunaikurnai traditions, the significance of waterways and the importance of caring for Country.
It is worth looking out for when travelling through Stratford, although the lack of a dedicated viewing area makes it more suitable as a landmark to admire while passing than as a destination for an extended stop.
Location
Stratford-Bengworden Road, Stratford 3862 View Map
