Fremantle mural artist Jackson Harvey today joined Water Minister Dave Kelly at White Gum Valley Primary School to help inspire a future generation of water sustainability ambassadors.
To celebrate National Water Week (October 19-25), the students heard how Fremantle's colourful coastal marine life inspired the artist's new street art projects for the Water Corporation.
The McGowan Government, through the Water Corporation's Splash of Colour program, commissioned the artworks on a wastewater pump station on Samson Street, White Gum Valley, and three electrical cabinets on Port Beach Road, North Fremantle.
The striking designs focus on the blue swimmer crab, which is found locally, and reflect the port city's strong ties to the ocean and coastal waterways.
In addition to learning about the importance of protecting the oceans and waterways, the Waterwise Schools Program session also educated the students on the water cycle and sustainability.
Since 2017, Splash of Colour has transformed 50 Water Corporation operational assets State-wide into vibrant, colourful public artworks. Track the program on social media: #splashofcolourwa.
This year's National Water Week theme is Reimagining our Water Future, which invites Australians to reimagine the way water is used and reused to ensure there is enough of it for future generations. To become involved in National Water Week, visit: http://www.awa.asn.au/AWA_MBRR/About_AWA/National_Water_Week.aspx
As stated by Water Minister Dave Kelly:
"What better way to celebrate National Water Week in Fremantle than by having local artist Jackson Harvey create stunning water-themed artworks for the local community to enjoy.
"In the face of climate change, it has never been more critical for us all to use water more sustainably. These Splash of Colour projects, the first within the City of Fremantle, will help inspire people to think waterwise for years to come.
"It was great seeing the students at White Gum Valley Primary School, even at a young age, so engaged in learning about Western Australia's precious water, where it comes from, and what we can all do to protect it for future generations."
As stated by Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk:
"Here in Freo we love public art and we're passionate about protecting our environment, especially our oceans and our precious water supply.
"The kids at White Gum Valley Primary are already active, switched-on, water-wise leaders.
"This splash of colour for White Gum Valley and North Freo will brighten our communities and celebrate our connection to the sea."
