Market gardens
In the absence of silos, water towers have been transformed into thoughtful storytelling platforms for towns and cities around the country. Victoria boasts a number of these visual art pieces and here's the best I've seen thus far in my travels.
Platypus
First and foremost, the significance of water supply and healthy waterways in
Werribee's development was acknowledged by Melbourne-based artist
Hayden Dewar who took 40 days to create the 18-metre water tower art on Tower Road. A water bailiff stands in the centre of the mural checking the flow of water delivered to market gardens for irrigation. This is done with the help of a Dethridge Wheel. Hayden based the water bailiff and market gardens on historical photos from the Werribee area. The Werribee River with its River Red Gum trees, as well as a platypus and a frog, are also featured.
Frog
Secondly, the diverse social tapestry of the state's southern coast is truly celebrated on the
Warrnambool Water Tower. Migrant groups in the region face many challenges and successes, and the journey of three of these local immigrants and former refugees have been beautifully portraited. Artist
Claire Foxton specialises in large-scale portraitures that explore human triumphs and strength. This artwork of hers can be found in Victoria Park on Hyland Street. As for the stories of Dora, Kaninda and Darshini, do head to the
Warrnambool Street Art website to watch their touching YouTube video.
Dora from Ireland
And, last but not least, the sacrifice and bravery of Indigenous ANZACs have been remembered in a towering tribute on Hunter Street in
Heywood. The town's 30-metre-high water tower now serves as a war memorial mural recognising Gunditjmara servicemen including four Lovett brothers and Captain Reginald Saunders who was the first Indigenous to be commissioned as an army officer. The Lovett brothers enlisted in both World War I and II.
Captain Reginald Saunders and one of the Lovett brothers
Feel free to leave a comment below if you've seen any other water tower artworks around the state that are worth mentioning.
