A cherished piece of Mirani’s public art has been given a vibrant new life, with the completion of an updated mural at the Mirani Swimming Centre — a striking tribute to the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
The original mural, which graced the entrance of the Swim Centre since the early 1990s, was commissioned by then-pool manager Lesley Kelly and painted by local artists Lesley Kane and Maxine Bradshaw of the Pioneer Valley Art Society. The duo fondly recall bringing the valley’s iconic fauna to life using paint donated by Mackay Regional Council.
Now, more than three decades later, the Mirani Swimming Club recognised the fading mural’s historical significance and took action to preserve this piece of community creativity.
In January 2025, the Club applied for a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, receiving funding in April to support the mural’s revitalisation.
Renowned muralist Joel Fergie, known as “The Zookeeper,” was commissioned to lead the project. Celebrated for his bold, community-centric murals across Queensland, Fergie welcomed the chance to engage with the Mirani community — including a meaningful reunion with the original artists during the creative process.
“I love coming to the Mackay Region to paint,” Fergie said.
“It’s always inspiring to learn about the people and stories behind a place — and this one has such a great history.”
The new mural is a vivid tapestry of colour, heart, and local identity. It showcases scenes that encapsulate the essence of the Pioneer Valley — from joyful moments at Platypus Beach, where native fauna curiously observe, to the enduring symbol of the region’s sugar industry, with a cane train crossing the bridge. Naturally, the platypus retains its pride of place in the artwork.
The refreshed mural has already garnered admiration from locals and visitors alike, praised for restoring warmth and vibrancy to the community hub.
“This mural has always been a part of our town’s story,” said original artist Lesley Kane.
“It’s just so wonderful to see it come alive again.”
The updated mural at the Mirani Swimming Centre breathes new life into a much-loved local landmark — a vibrant tribute to the Pioneer Valley’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Photo supplied
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
