Murray River Council held an official launch event for the River Country Art Trail in Mathoura on Wednesday, marking an exciting milestone for arts, tourism and community pride across the region.
The trail was officially launched by Murray River Council Mayor, Cr John Harvie and celebrates a collection of iconic sculptures and public artworks that showcase the culture, history and spirit of the vibrant River Country communities.
Coordinated by specialist art consultancy firm, FORM, the River Country Art Trail features a series of large-scale murals on water towers in Barham, Mathoura, Moulamein and Moama, along with a major sculpture installation in Tooleybuc. Together, these artworks create a compelling trail that invites visitors to travel between towns and discover the stories that shape River Country.
Cr Harvie said the project demonstrates how creativity can transform everyday infrastructure into landmark attractions.
"Council is incredibly proud to officially launch the River Country Art Trail and celebrate the incredible artworks that now form this unique outdoor gallery across our region."
"Thanks to the support of the NSW Government, this project shows how creativity can revitalise existing local assets while celebrating the culture, history and landscapes that make our communities so special."
Following extensive community engagement and a rigorous selection process, the project welcomed several internationally renowned artists to the region over the past 18 months, each sharing their unique skills, talent and vision with the local communities.
"As the project progressed, it also created opportunities to connect with local communities as concepts were developed and these exciting new attractions came to life across our towns," Cr Harvie added.
The project was made possible thanks to $1.74 million in NSW Government funding.
Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
"Investing in projects like this helps regional communities showcase what makes them unique. The River Country Art Trail will bring people together, spark local pride and create new opportunities for the whole region."
"This project is a fantastic boost for River Country communities, turning local stories and landscapes into must‑see attractions. The trail will draw more visitors into these towns, supporting small businesses and strengthening regional tourism."
About the trail:
MOAMA
Begin in Moama, where the striking Water Tower mural sets the tone for the trail. Painted by renowned artist Twoone (Hiroyasu Tsuri), his mural titled Blue Crane and Friends celebrates the town's deep connection to nature and cultural heritage. Inspired by Yorta Yorta stories, the mural features the White-faced Heron, locally known as the 'Blue Crane,' a bird of great significance to the Yorta Yorta people.
MATHOURA
Down the road in Mathoura, creativity and imagination weave into the natural landscape where Spanish artist Dulk's Guardians of the Murray highlights the region's rich ecosystem and the delicate balance of its environment. His mural showcases fantastical elements such as the unicorn horns, diamonds and a vivid palette, all symbolising the adaptation of animals facing human impact. Dulk hopes the mural inspires children to dream and encourages visitors to explore both the artwork and the town's beauty.
BARHAM
Barham is home to the catalyst for the entire River Country Art Trail; the first creative vision that led the way for the region. Completed by Australian artist Gus Eagleton, renowned for his vivid realism and storytelling through portraiture, the mural captures the essence of Barham through three striking silhouettes. These represent the town's redgum heritage, pioneering families, ANZAC legacy (featuring George Rathbone), and enduring connection to the Murray River. Positioned prominently on the water tower, the mural is a cultural landmark and a proud visual anchor for the trail.
MOULAMEIN
Further west, Moulamein invites visitors to experience its newly painted water tower, brought to life by renowned muralist Heesco. Developed in close consultation with the community, the mural is divided into three sections: the first celebrates the natural world and environment; the second pays tribute to the region's agricultural richness; and the final section, in black-and-white and sepia tones, reflects the town's history and heritage; from the Big Tree and Court House to the Mooloomoon Shearing Shed. Together, these visuals reflect a community deeply connected to its land, stories and enduring spirit.
TOOLEYBUC
In Tooleybuc, the River Country Art Trail reaches its sculptural crescendo with 'Gathering the Bounty'; a striking 11-metre artwork by nationally acclaimed artist Stuart Green. Installed beside the Murray River in Mensforth Park, this towering figure represents the Riverina as Australia's food bowl. Formed from a bold matrix of sculptural lines, the artwork depicts a giant, abstracted figure stretching out to gather vibrant fruit as a nod to the agricultural richness of the region. Internally lit and highly visible by day or night, the sculpture serves as both beacon and destination, marking Tooleybuc as the gateway and grand finale of the trail.
Together, these installations form the River Country Art Trail: a vibrant celebration of art, community and place.
