A Viterra silo located in Lameroo, in the Murray Mallee region of South Australia, is the latest structure to go under the brush, with a 24-metre tall mural that celebrates the town’s farming history.
This is the 13th silo mural project to adorn Viterra structures across South Australia, connecting rural communities through art and tourism.
The mural depicts a hyper-realistic portrait of a farmer surveying his land at sunrise, a reference to the town’s agricultural beginnings and a symbol of the unwavering spirit of the Mallee. It was designed by internationally renowned muralist Sam “Smug” Bates, whose extensive resume includes a painting on another Viterra silo in Wirrabara in the Southern Flinders Ranges.
The project, which was designed in consultation with the local community, has been the vision and mission of community volunteer group, Lameroo Forward Inc, for the past three years and is due to be completed by May.
Lameroo Forward Inc chair, Nicole McMahon says the project will inject pride and optimism for Lameroo residents, and encourage new visitors.
“This project is a tourist attraction for Lameroo and is already creating a real buzz in town and local area,” Nicole says.
“We’ve seen the positive impact silo art has had on other rural towns; joining the Australian Silo Art Trail can be an economic lifeline and is a huge win for regional arts in South Australia.”
Viterra General Manager Operations, Gavin Cavanagh says Viterra is proud to support the installation of the silo art.
“Through the many silo art projects we’ve supported over the years, we have seen how they can reinvigorate a town and boost the local residents, including many of our own employees and grower customers from the area,” Gavin says.
“It’s been exciting to watch the transformation of our Lameroo silos, and we’re looking forward to seeing the longer-term positive impacts for the community.”
Viterra congratulates Lameroo Forward Inc whose hard work and passion in driving the project has been fantastic and thanks the Southern Mallee District Council for their contributions to make this artwork happen.