A new four-storey-tall artwork that champions the Bega Valley’s natural beauty will greet tourists and locals as they enter town.
Local mural artist Simon Thomas was given the opportunity to work on one of Council’s water tanks at the town’s entrance.
“The work is about my love of the area,” Mr Thomas says.
“We always used to holiday in the area before moving here many years ago, and whenever we arrived it always felt like we were coming to a secret place.
“That’s why the design of the mural looks like you’re peering into a giant terrarium and inside are all the things that I loved about the place, including Nethercote Falls.”
Director of the South East Centre for Contemporary Art (SECCA), Iain Dawson says the mural joins other large artworks in the Bega Valley, contributing to the shire’s presence on a national art trail.
“The success of our first water tank mural project in Merimbula and Eden has driven further interest in making these murals more permanent and joining the growing number of artists working on silos and large infrastructure across the country,” Mr Dawson says.
Bega Valley Shire Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick says the eye-catching landmark invites residents and visitors to explore the area.
“It’s fantastic that we have this work of art overlooking Merimbula and the beautiful bush surrounds that feature in the mural,” Cr Fitzpatrick says.
“This area has so much to offer, and just by exploring a little bit we can stumble across all sorts of gems, like Nethercote Falls.
“As we head into drier times, the mural also serves as a reminder that our water catchments are a precious resource in the Bega Valley Shire.”
The mural can be seen on the water tank on Merimbula Drive, next to the Rural Fire Brigade Building.
