Rutherglen cyclists Ken Baker, Greg Griffiths, Phillip Nickson, Lance Sullivan and Andrew Melville on their bi-weekly, 25km ride near the silos.
Rutherglen’s newest murals are already grabbing attention as the sketching and painting of Birds of Seasons began this month.
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The four murals come together to celebrate the small, beautiful birds that have historically played a signalled the changing seasons to First Nations people and farmers.
The migratory birds, native blooms and position of the sun on each individual silo work together to represent each of the four seasons.
Within the form of each bird, intricate details reveal seasonal crops, golden veins and markings inspired by goldrush-era maps, and unique land patterns informed by local stories and lore.
The combination of the elements intertwines past and present, nature and culture.
This mural series invites viewers to appreciate the intricate connections between wildlife, the land and the seasonal cycles that define the region.
Tourism North East, in collaboration with Indigo Shire Council, facilitated several community consultations throughout November and December 2024.
“We are grateful to all of our engaged community members, businesses and organisations who participated and offered their thoughts and insights on the suggested themes and concepts for the artwork,” a spokesperson said.
“Following the session, this valuable feedback was provided to Ronan Holdsworth, the selected artist, to help inform his creative development and the final design.”
The artist’s impression of the final design: Winter - The Eastern Spinebill Honeyeater and Common Heath, Autumn - The Red-Capped Robin and Billy Buttons, Summer - The Yellow-Tufted Honeyeater and River Red Gum, and Spring - The Pink Robin and Flannel Flowers.
Mr Holdsworth of Wangaratta was chosen as the mural artist following a competitive tender process.
The Rutherglen Silo Precinct is included in the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Enhancement Project as a strategically important site.
Not only are the silos situated in the heart of Rutherglen, they sit at the trailhead of the Murray to Mountains Trail section.
Indigo Shire Council chief executive, Trevor Ierino welcomed the start of work on the silos.
“I’m actually excited about it and excited for Rutherglen,” he said.
“We have this artwork right in the heart of town, close to the main street and beside a beautiful park.
“The design tells a story of the region and it’s already attracting plenty of interest from locals and visitors.”
The project is funded by the State Government’s Fast Track Fund and aims to increase visitation and expenditure in the region.