The NSW Rural Fire Service shed in Wauchope has undergone a vibrant redecoration with Port Macquarie artist Damon Moroney painting a tribute to the strength of firefighting volunteers.
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The extensive artwork of a fire truck, forest, animals and firefighter extinguishing a burning building took around 25 hours to complete.
Brigade secretary and firefighter Tori Archer, one of 27 active members at the station, said the original idea for a mural was thought of by firefighters during the fire season.
"During the peak of the fire season we got together and talked about how much time we were spending at the station. The wall was a plain yellow and we decided it would be a good initiative to see if someone could paint a mural for us," Ms Archer said.
"We were looking at paints and looking for someone to paint it but Damon said he'd paint and organise it out of his own pocket. We were speechless.
"It's amazing. We couldn't be any prouder of what we have received. We want to say thank you because this is where we spend most of our time during a peak fire season."
The mural covers the outside wall of the firefighters lounge room, debriefing room, offices and training areas.
Mr Moroney said he had help from sons Tyler and Riley to paint the wall as they were finishing their school work at the station.
"I just painted where I could and it took about a two week period. They gave me a fire related theme and I incorporated that in the painting," said the Iknograffix artist.
"I put it to them that I'd donate my time and spray cans, Dulux donated the bulk of the roller paint and Red Shed Hire donated a scissor-lift to complete the job.
"I had the kids here as well doing their school work and they would occasionally jump up to help me.
"These guys are volunteer firefighters and to see the hard effort they put in last year and this year I wanted to give something back. I'm honoured to paint here."
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