Photo by: Suzanne McMeekin
Gunnedah Water Tank Art - New South Wales
Artists: Heesco & Ronnie Long
Location: Pensioners Hill, Gunnedah, New South Wales
Photos by: Wilhelmina Manfreda
Completed September 2025
Renowned mural artist Heesco has returned to Gunnedah, this time to transform the Pensioners Hill water tank into a striking piece of community art.
Best known locally for the Dorothea Mackellar silo artwork, Heesco is now painting half of the tank inside and out, drawing inspiration from the site’s history and the families who once lived there. On the other half, artist Ronnie Long is creating imagery of local animals and totems, reflecting the Aboriginal cultural perspective of the area.
While in town, Heesco visited our school to talk with students about his art practice. Artist Warwick Keen, who was initially involved in the project alongside Ronnie, stepped in to visit on Ronnie’s behalf. Together, they shared examples of their work, answered questions, and Heesco even gave a live demonstration.
Some Year 12 students had the special experience of getting their shirts signed by the artists, and Steph Vines presented them with a gift of thanks on behalf of the school.
The Pensioners Hill water tank project is set to become another landmark artwork for Gunnedah, weaving together stories of local history, culture, and community.
The project is being coordinated by Owen Hasler on behalf of the Gunnedah Urban Landcare Group.
