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Warragul and Yarragon just got a little brighter following the completion of three eye-catching murals that have been designed to liven up the streetscapes.

Laneways and public toilets aren’t your usual ‘attractions’, but that recently changed thanks to Council’s Outdoor Activation Program, which saw sites at Palmerston and Napier Streets, Warragul, and the Yarragon Public Toilets, transformed by picturesque murals, inspired by Baw Baw’s native flora and fauna.

Matthew Thompson, who goes by the artist name ‘Ling’, was behind the Napier Street, Warragul and the Yarragon Public Toilet murals. He drew his inspiration for the designs from the area’s natural environment. Spending time with associates from Alchemy Orange (a botanical design studio) and Alice Pepper from Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC), to design meaningful pieces that blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

The concept behind the final design for Yarragon was to showcase the Southern Emu Wren and Superb Blue Wren, which represent males and females in the Gunai Kurnai culture. The design also includes gum nuts and other local flora and fauna, which can be found on the design of the Napier Street mural, highlights the history and beauty of the area.

The mural on Palmerston Street was designed by James Beattie, who goes by the artist name ‘Jimmy Dvate’. Jimmy’s inspiration for the mural was based on a photograph of the native White-Naped Honeyeater, taken by photographer Greg Wyncoll. The Honeyeater is featured and is set among a vibrant background of local plant life.

Council identified the three locations as areas of high pedestrian traffic, ripe for a splash of colour. Potential artists were tasked with providing vibrant visuals that promote our beautiful region and capture a part of what makes Baw Baw truly unique.

Following an expression of interest process in , the successful artists quickly got to work, fighting the wet weather to create their masterpieces.

The captivating murals now provide colourful reference points for locals and visitors alike, with the pieces becoming points of inspiration and creativity for the entire community and helping to brighten Up Baw Baw.

The completion of the murals formed part of Council’s Outdoor Activation Program, which has been funded through the Victorian Government’s COVID Safe Outdoor Activation Funding.

Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Michael Leaney

“Public art plays a valuable role in beautifying our existing spaces – and provides a platform for incredibly talented artists to showcase their work.

These vibrant murals truly transform the walls they are on. They brighten up the otherwise bland spaces and give the community something to take pride in. Additions such as these murals help to make the visitor experience in our region even better”.