A new mural adorning the Peregian Beach water reservoir is almost ready to be revealed, with artists undertaking the challenge of completing it under scaffolding to bring it to life.
The five million-litre asset has been undergoing a $3.9 million upgrade, including essential structural maintenance, a new roof and the updated artwork.
Unitywater Chief Executive Officer, Anna Jackson, said she was pleased the iconic artwork, depicting melaleuca trees, was renewed as part of the project and something the local community could enjoy.
“This reservoir was constructed in 1981 and was due for some maintenance which would impact the mural.”
“It made sense to repair and renew the artwork at the same time and the installation artists, The
Brightsiders have done a fantastic job painting it while the scaffolding was still up and the maintenance works have taken place,” she said.
“The maintenance works will help ensure water quality for about 2,000 properties in Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach by keeping any potential contaminants out of the reservoir and will increase the longevity of this asset, meaning it can continue supplying water for these communities for the next 40-plus years.”
Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie said residents had for many decades been suggesting the reservoir be painted and it had become an iconic landmark since the artwork was first painted 10 years ago.
“The reservoir is Noosa Shire’s largest public artwork and it’s great to see Unitywater remains committed to the maintenance of this high-profile community asset,” he said.
Artist Colin Passmore, who painted the original design, was happy to see his concept renewed on the reservoir.
“The renewal of the artwork is exemplary, looking better than ever, very fresh and showing that an extra 10 years of experience makes a big difference when creating,” he said.
“I love it and I am sure all who have the pleasure of experiencing the vision will too. Well done to the The Brightsiders team.”
The Brightsiders artist Jordan Bruce said the moment of truth awaited when the scaffolding comes down.
“This has been a different method of doing the artwork when we don’t have the ability to stand back and really assess the accuracy. Two of us were involved in the original artwork so it’s really great to be able to return and re-do this piece with an extra 10 years of experience up our sleeves,” he said.
The reservoir upgrade works are part of Unitywater’s replacements and renewals program, where the utility is investing $400 million over the next five years to continue providing safe and reliable water and wastewater services across the region.
