Launched on 27 March 2021 by local MP and Victorian Treasurer, Tim Pallas, the historic Werribee Water Tower has been brought back to life with the completion of a giant mural, now creating an impressive landmark for Werribee.
Originally built to supply ‘town’ water to Werribee in 1914, the old tower has been transformed by the new mural highlighting heritage, the importance of water in the development of Werribee, and the role of agriculture in the district.
Project funding was provided to Arts Assist, a not-for-profit community organisation that supports and promotes the arts in Wyndham, through the Victorian Government’s Community Support Fund.
Two years of work went into the project, a joint venture between project lead, Arts Assist, and Southern Rural Water (SRW) as project partner.
Mural artist Hayden Dewar said he received great feedback from locals as the mural took shape, “It’s become a real feature for Werribee…it’s been great to see (the tower) transform,” he said.
At 18 metres tall, the tower and the scale of the mural presented some unique challenges to the artist as he had not worked on a project this large before. He was assisted by fellow artist Shmek One.
The mural features a water bailiff checking a Dethridge wheel, with agriculture in the background. Native birds, platypus, a grass frog, river redgum, and the Werribee River also feature in the foreground representing the biodiversity of the region.
A prominent feature of the landscape, the tower played an important role in the development of Werribee and the history of the former State Rivers and Water Supply Commission.
SRW Chairman, Diane James AM said, “This wonderful mural on our historic water tower brings it back to life. It also pays respect to the proud agricultural history recognising this contribution to the development of the district and the Werribee township. Our recent investment in the modernisation of the irrigation district builds on this proud history to help secure the future for our Werribee farmers”.
Jan Goates, Chair of Arts Assist said, “Arts Assist has a long history of supporting the arts in Wyndham and is very proud to have led this project that created a wonderful community art piece in the heart of Werribee.
The mural celebrates local heritage, flora and fauna, honours the important role of agriculture locally and highlights the importance of healthy rivers.
We hope this artistic landmark contributes to Wyndham as being a vibrant, creative and engaging place to live and visit, and offers the community and visitors an insight into local identity and history”.
Photography: Artmix
Arts Assist, Mural, public art, Water Tower, Werribee, Werribee water tower, Wyndham, wyndham arts, Wyndham City
