New mural project connects gardens through art
Published on 28 July 2025
A drab and dreary tunnel at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens is about to burst into colour thanks to a new mural project funded by the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF).
Titled “Connecting Gardens Through Art”, this vibrant mural project will transform the tunnel beneath the railway track into a colourful celebration of local biodiversity.
Local artists, creators, groups and organisations can now also apply for funding for their projects, with Round One of the 2025/2026 RADF grants open.
Artist and photographer Pamela Finger was successful in receiving $9500 in funding, approved in Round Three of 2024/2025 of the RADF grants to undertake the mural.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the mural would serve as both a visual connector between two major sections of the gardens and an educational tool.
“The tunnel is a popular route for walkers and cyclists, and it is set to become a dynamic canvas, telling the story of the region’s unique flora and fauna,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The mural will help visitors identify native plants and animals from the Central Queensland Coast Bioregion,” he said.
Grant applicant Pamela Finger said it was fantastic to have local muralist Kate Brunner lead the project.
“Kate is well-known for her beautiful artwork, including collaborating with other artists to paint the Fifth Lane mural,” Ms Finger said.
“Kate will be collaborating with volunteers from the Botanical Art Interest Group, part of the Gardens Friends group, during this project,” she said.
“The volunteers will gain hands-on experience in mural painting under Kate’s guidance, building valuable artistic skills while contributing to a lasting community asset.”
Community consultation on the project will begin in August with painting to begin in September, weather permitting.
This project exemplifies the spirit of RADF - supporting local artists, fostering community collaboration and celebrating regional identity through the arts.
Round one of the 2025/2026 RADF grants is open now and closes on October 15, 2025, for projects commencing after November 26, 2025.
The Regional Arts Development Fund is delivered as a partnership between the Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland, and eligible local councils across the state.
For more information visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/radf
Successful recipients for Round 3 RADF grants are:
Brushstrokes of the Bush, Catherine Clark Dowden - $9900 – To create a new body of work for an exhibition that captures the joys of growing up on the land.
Whale Watcher’s Lookout, Vynka von Fahland - $5000 – To undertake a concept development that explores costs, logistics and community support for an art installation at the Slade Point Lookout.
Rhythm and the Reef Music and Arts Festival 2025, James Slade - $10,000 – a three-day boutique music and arts festival with the aim of helping to protect the Great Barrier Reef and enhance regional tourism.
Little Louie’s Christmas Presence, Elanor Hanlon - $9900 – A real-life inspired children’s book series that follows the adventures of Louie, a twin poddy calf.
Veteran Wellbeing Programs, Leanne Jones - $8000 – To investigate the viability of expanding her practice.
The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens tunnel is currently in need of a refresh.