We have engaged an artist to work with local young people to design and install an outdoor platypus mural under the Star Road Bridge in Bright.

The platypus is an iconic Australian animal found in freshwater habitats in eastern Australia. Platypus’ conservation status is officially listed as 'near threatened' both in Australia and internationally (as described in the IUCN Red List since 2016) (Australian Platypus Conservancy, 2023).

Raising public awareness of the presence of platypus in our local waterways will help reduce the threat inadvertently posed to them by human actions, particularly by litter entering our waterways.

Competition details

To help inspire the end mural design, we are hosting a competition for young people aged open 14-18 years residing in the Alpine Shire. This is an incredible opportunity to be a part of a large public mural project and work alongside an established artist.

To enter you will need to submit:

• A photo of your artwork that will inspire the platypus mural (the final mural will not be as per the competition entrant but the final design by the artist will be inspired by the winning piece).
• In a short paragraph, tell us why your artwork should be chosen to inspire the mural project.
  

There will be four winners for the best artwork design.

The winners will be involved in the installation of the project and receive a $50.00 award, each.

Installation will commence on 15 March and will take approximately three days to complete.

Waterway health during the mural installation

To ensure protection of the waterways and natural environment, a condition of the artist’s engagement is that non-toxic, eco-friendly and VOC free products shall be used for the mural so as not to pose a risk to the natural environment during application or over the life of the mural.

NECMA have been informed about the project and are supportive and excited to see it brought to life!

Competition closes 11. 59pm Sunday, 11 February 2024.