Last July, Gilgandra Shire Council put a call out to the community to get ideas for murals at their Gilgandra Cultural Precinct (GCP).

There were three key themes to suggest designs for - military history, Aboriginal heritage, and farming and natural landscape.

With its prime location on the Newell Highways and on the banks of the Castlereagh River, the GCP is perfectly situated to showcase the area to visitors as well as brighten it up for the locals.

General Manager of Gilgandra Shire Council, David Neeves said at the time of the consultation that he looked forward to the murals being completed.

“Murals and public art aren’t just an addition to the beautification of our local towns, but also a popular tourist attraction for rural communities,” he said. “The addition of murals will add another point of interest to our expanding Gilgandra Cultural Precinct, complementing the recently renovated Coo-ee Heritage Centre and Windmill Walk.”

Following Council planning and a community survey, with over 100 responses from the public, as well as consultation with Council’s Economic Development Committee, artist Locky Naef, with assisting local artist Gail Naden has brought the community’s ideas to life.

Landscaping works near the Sound Shell and Community Gardens have also taken place.

Another of Gilgandra's murals. IMAGE: Gilgandra Region NSW

The project focuses on utilising the Castlereagh River flowing through Gilgandra, enhanced though art with recognition of culture and history of the region. Connecting the Gilgandra Cultural Precinct (GCP) to Miller Street (Gilgandra’s CBD) and creating an inviting space for locals and tourists alike.

Artist Locky Naef is from El Studio and has also worked on other local projects including the “The Nyngan” wall mural, Dubbo Macquarie Home Stay and the Roar Festival.

The three key themes have been portrayed beautifully with the project focussed on acknowledging the Gilgandra community in celebrating its rich culture and heritage.

The Council announced the completion of the murals on social media, saying it is proud to showcase this work for the community to enjoy and urging residents to go and check it out.

Gilgandra’s streets are full of colour with other murals found in Miller Street, Warren Road and below the Jack Renshaw Bridge