Mayor column: with Cr John Harvie

Published on 03 July 2025

Murray River Council is bringing colour and creativity to local schools through a new mural project delivered as part of the Council’s Arts and Culture Strategy.

Funded through Council’s arts and culture budget, the initiative will see vibrant murals painted at Bunnaloo, Tooleybuc, Barham, Wakool/Burraboi, and Moulamein primary schools.

Each school is working with local artist Zowie Crump to co-design a mural that reflects the unique identity and values of their school community. Students are playing a hands-on role: either contributing their own artwork for Zowie to incorporate or helping shape the theme she will bring to life.

Moulamein was the first to complete their mural, and now Bunnaloo Public School and Tooleybuc Central have followed suit, unveiling bright new artwork created in collaboration with students. Congratulations to all involved! Next up: Barham and Wakool/Burraboi. We can’t wait to see what these school communities create!

And in other creative news: the Moulamein water tower mural is now officially complete and is the fourth major artwork on the growing River Country Art Trail - an initiative by Council celebrating the region’s culture, history and natural beauty. 

Created by renowned artist Heesco, the towering mural captures the unique identity of Moulamein through themes of history and heritage, natural environment, and community spirit. From local flora and fauna to the town’s strong sense of belonging, the artwork pays tribute to what makes Moulamein special.

Students from Moulamein Public School recently visited the site during the final stages of the project, meeting Heesco and learning about the process - asking everything from how much paint he uses to whether he’s afraid of heights!

The other completed artworks are located at Barham, Moama and Mathoura and are worth the drive to admire. And while visiting, why not enjoy the local hospitality? Perhaps a hearty counter lunch or delicious morning tea! 

The final piece, a sculpture in Tooleybuc, is set to begin construction at the beautiful Mensforth Park in October. 

Follow the progress and see behind-the-scenes updates on Murray River Council’s Facebook page. 

You can also keep up to date with all the news on council’s website or provide comments on Murray River Council’s Your Say platform.