A green roadside cabinet that powers essential wastewater services near Garth Prowd Bridge in Noosa Heads has had a facelift, with local artist Sammy Ray Jones transforming it with an eye-catching mural.
The new public artwork was created as part of Unitywater’s Community Art Program, an initiative that Unitywater executive manager Joshua Zugajev said would improve the aesthetic of the utility’s water and wastewater assets.
“Our Community Art Program provides local artists with the opportunity to flex their creativity by helping turn our plain brick, concrete and metal pieces of infrastructure into vibrant public art,” Mr Zugajev said.
“These artworks create striking backdrops for locals and tourists, and also help deter graffiti, as vandals are often less likely to tag other artists’ work.”
The new mural on Noosa Parade was brought to life with colour in honour of the rich First Nations culture and deep connection between people and place in the Noosa region – with artist Sammy Ray Jones capturing the spirit and stories that have helped shape the identity of the region.
“My latest mural reflects the customs and practices of local First Nations people, including the nautilus shell known as ‘Du’lin’ or ‘Dalung’, which was once used to turn into necklaces as a form of currency and had huge economic significance in the area,” Mr Jones said.
“The unique flora and fauna of the Noosa region is also depicted, and a powerful image of a First Nation’s Elder.”
The mural is the fourth roadside cabinet in Unitywater’s service area to be transformed in the last two months, joining works on Karawatha Drive in Mountain Creek by Owen Cavanagh, Nicklin Way in Minyama by Zartisha Davis, and the Bongaree Foreshore on Bribie Island by Jayda Bruce.
