Artists announced for Forest Hill silos mural project

The artists who will transform the GrainCorp silos at Forest Hill have been announced!

South East Queensland-based muralists Jordan Bruce and Joel Fergie have been selected to deliver the large-scale murals, with painting set to begin next month.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said she was delighted to finally be able to reveal the artists chosen for the eagerly anticipated project.

“Jordan Bruce of the ‘Brightsiders’ and Joel Fergie ‘The Zookeeper’ are recognised nationally for delivering large-scale public artworks, including silo murals, water towers and major civic installations,” she said.

“Together, they have worked on a range of landmark vertical structures, including the Kallangur Water Tower, GrainCorp Silos at Yelarbon, Caboolture Water Tower, Beachmere Water Tower, Three Moon Silos at Monto, Cowra Water Towers and Peregian Water Tower.

“They are committed to delivering works that honour the identity, history and spirit of the communities they work in, and I’m confident this artwork will become a lasting point of pride and connection for Forest Hill and our region.”

Mayor Milligan said the final design would remain under wraps for now, allowing the community to see it gradually emerge as the painting progresses.

“What we can reveal is the artwork will capture the essence of the Lockyer Valley,” she said.

“The mural will feature layered storytelling, nostalgic touches, meaningful interactions, and a design that thoughtfully integrates with the existing railway line, creating a truly unique visual and visitor experience.

“Jordan and Joel have already spent time engaging with the Forest Hill community, speaking with residents and community groups to help ensure the artwork reflects the stories, values and character of the region.”

The mural is expected to be completed by mid-November, weather permitting, and works on the corresponding viewing precinct are also timed for mid-November completion.

“The viewing platform will provide residents and visitors with a safe and accessible location to view the large-scale murals on the silos,” Mayor Milligan said.

“Once complete, the viewing precinct will deliver a range of new infrastructure, including a parking facility for cars, RVs and buses, new footpaths, landscaping, seating area and shaded facilities.”

GrainCorp Community Engagement Manager Kyle Docherty said this project represented a significant milestone in celebrating a decade of silo art across east coast Australia.

“Projects of this scale are only possible because of the passion and dedication of local champions. We'd like to acknowledge and thank Lockyer Valley Regional Council for their vision, leadership and commitment in bringing this project to fruition,” Kyle said.

“We’re excited to see the artwork become a source of pride for the Forest Hill community, attracting more visitors and delivering lasting benefits for the wider region.”

The Forest Hill Silos Precinct and Mural Art Project will deliver the closest silo art to South East Queensland’s booming population, providing a significant injection to the economy of nearby towns and businesses.

The project received $1.85 million in combined Australian Government and Queensland Government funding through the South East Queensland (SEQ) Liveability Fund, one of 29 commitments under the SEQ City Deal – a partnership between the Australian Government, Queensland Government and Council of Mayors (SEQ) to deliver long-lasting benefits for the fast-growing SEQ region.

Traffic management will be in place as required throughout the duration of the works, and Council appreciates the patience and understanding of all.

For more information on the project, visit https://lockyervalley.engagementhub.com.au/