Something BIG is coming to Forest Hill — and we mean really big.The artists behind the highly anticipated Forest Hill Silos Precinct and Mural Art Project have officially been announced, with South East Queensland muralists Jordan Bruce of the Brightsiders and Joel Fergie, known as The Zookeeper, set to transform the GrainCorp silos.
Painting is expected to begin in October, with the finished artwork currently being kept under wraps so locals and visitors can watch the design gradually come to life.
What we do know is that the mural will celebrate the identity, history and character of the Lockyer Valley, incorporating local stories, nostalgic elements and even the neighbouring railway line into the overall design.
The artists bring plenty of large-scale experience to Forest Hill, having worked on silo murals, water towers and major public artworks across Queensland and interstate.
And it’s not just the silos getting a makeover.
A new viewing precinct is also being delivered, including parking for cars, RVs and buses, along with new footpaths, landscaping, seating and shaded facilities — creating a new stop for visitors exploring the Lockyer Valley.
The mural and viewing precinct are expected to be completed by mid-November, weather permitting.
The project has received $1.85 million in combined Australian and Queensland Government funding through the South East Queensland Liveability Fund, part of the SEQ City Deal.
Once complete, the Forest Hill mural will become the closest silo art experience to South East Queensland’s growing population, creating a new tourism attraction while encouraging visitors to stop, explore and spend in Forest Hill and surrounding Lockyer Valley communities.
So if you're travelling through Forest Hill over the next couple of months, keep an eye on those silos — a very big blank canvas is about to get a whole lot more colourful.