Murals of thanks a lasting legacy of community's bushfire efforts

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is developing a series of murals to recognise and say thank you to those that protected and supported the community, and to acknowledge those who were affected.

The initiative has been made possible with Commonwealth Government Disaster Recovery Funding and local artists were asked to express their interest in painting one or more of the eight murals to appear in prominent sites across the region.

Mayor Peta Pinson was encouraged by the enthusiasm of local artists wanting to be involved and have their interpretation of thanks displayed.

"The passion shown really does demonstrate our community spirit and desire to leave a lasting memory of thanks to those that helped protect us, our wildlife and environment during such a difficult period," Cr Pinson said.

"And the great thing is, while the murals are being created, gratitude chalk boards are at each location where it is hoped that members of each community will stop and leave their messages of thanks and gratitude."

The artists chosen for the project are:

Works have commenced and they will be unveiled later in November.

A number of the murals are being painted off-site on boards. Each site now has gratitude chalks boards installed, and the community is encouraged to leave a message.

The Lake Cathie chalk board is located at Caramels Café.

"The devastating bushfires of 2019 are still very fresh in the minds of many, and as a community we will continue to support you, and want you to know that you are not forgotten and assistance remains available," Cr Pinson said.

"It is so important that we continue to recognise all those that went above and beyond, we have a lot to thank them for and look forward to the lasting memory of their efforts through the joy of art."

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