Commencing as a community art project in 1983 driven by a dedicated team of artists and volunteers, the mural has long been recognised as a vibrant centrepiece of the Benalla lakeside.
In recent years, major flood events have taken their toll, making some sections unsafe, highlighting the need for specialised restoration.
Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn said the work was essential to safeguard the future of the treasured public artwork.
“For more than 40 years it has been a place for families to gather, play and explore,” she said.
“It’s a symbol of this community’s creativity.
“Restoring it ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy this unique space.”
Benalla Rural City Council partnered with Grimwade Conservation Services, nationally recognised experts in cultural materials’ conservation, to undertake the work.
Stage one focused on stabilising vulnerable areas, and reinstating tiles to the upper east braille wall, ensuring the mural remained structurally sound.
The project team included Penny Byrne, object conservator specialising in ceramics conservation at the University of Melbourne’s Grimwade Conservation Services, with the support of heritage tiler Michael Hathaway and original mural artist Regina Laity.
“Michael and I had a wonderful time working on the mural, and we were really pleased to have some assistance from Regina too,” Ms Byrne said.
“Towards the end of the week, as we were completing the repair to the east braille wall, we had a number of compliments from people walking past, which was great.
“We are very happy to have been able to complete the urgent works and look forward to continuing with the next stage of the project in 2026.”
Their combined expertise has ensured that the restoration honours the original design while meeting contemporary conservation standards.
“This collaboration brings together technical skill, artistic insight and a deep respect for the mural’s history,” Cr Hearn said.
“We are incredibly grateful for the specialist care and attention given to this project.”
Planning for stage two is already under way, with future works to address additional sections where tiles, mortar and drainage systems require attention.
A final stage will focus on longer-term conservation measures designed to strengthen the mural and preserve its cultural significance for decades to come.
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