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    New Indigenous Art Silo Mural Unveiled in Toowoomba

    Published on 5 March 2025, Wednesday, 9:00 PM
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    • A zoomed out image of a boom lift and the silo that has a new painting
    • An artist riding a boomlift painting on a silo

    Kennards Hire and Keneco Property are proud to officially unveil ‘We remember, never to forget’ a stunning new public art installation by local Indigenous artist Kim Walmsley (Mununjali). This vibrant mural celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage and marks a significant addition to Toowoomba’s growing collection of public art.

    The breathtaking mural is displayed on the sole remaining GrainCorp silo in Harristown, which is now home to the Kennards Hire Toowoomba Branch. Following the purchase of the site by Keneco Property in 2018, 10 of the 11 silos were removed in 2021, leaving one standing — now home to Walmsley’s unique artwork.

    The mural by Walmsley is a deeply symbolic work, reflecting both personal and collective histories. Central themes include remembrance, resilience, and connection to the land. Walmsley’s creation speaks to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, inviting viewers to reflect on the shared stories of the land and its people. 

    “The design is a celebration of our culture, our heritage, and our future,” says Walmsley. 

    “Through this artwork, we remember our ancestors, the stories of strength and resilience, and the importance of community. This mural is for all people — Indigenous and non-Indigenous — to appreciate and connect with.” 

     

    The Mural’s Themes

    The mural’s visual elements tell a compelling story. A young First Nations girl gazes at a bouquet of flowers, symbolising hope and the dreams of future generations. The Bunya pine and Eucalyptus trees are significant, representing the sacred relationship between the land and its people. Darby McCarthy OAM, the first Indigenous Australian horse racer to gain international recognition, is also honoured within the artwork, highlighting his legacy and his commitment to youth justice and empowerment in the community. 

    The mural incorporates native Australian flowers and the New Zealand fern, representing solidarity and the cultural diversity of the Toowoomba community, which has long been a home to refugees and new settlers. The silhouetted soldiers are representative of the ANZAC’s and defence personnel who watch over us and remind us every day that we are here because of our ancestors.  

     

    A Celebration of Local Art and Culture

    This art installation marks Kennards Hire and the Kennard family’s continued commitment to engaging with the local community and celebrating the importance of art, culture, and history in public spaces. The silo mural is not only a stunning work of art but also a cultural touchstone for Toowoomba’s Indigenous communities, residents and visitors to the region.

    “We’re incredibly proud to support this project,” said Cam Kennard, CEO Keneco Property. 

    “The mural beautifully brings together themes of resilience, history, and unity, inviting viewers to reflect on the shared journey of this land and its people.” 

    “Our hope is that this mural becomes a space where locals and visitors pause to appreciate not only its beauty but also its deep cultural significance,” said Kennard. 

    The art silo art was commissioned by Kennards Hire, the Kennard family and Keneco Property and is the 71st silo featured on the Australian Art Silo Trail.