GrainCorp Silos at Katamatite - Victoria

The GrainCorp Silos art project at Katamatite, painted by Tim Bowtell in July 2023, holds significant importance to the Lions Club and the entire community.

The silos hold a rich history, with memories of grain trucks lining up for delivery and grain transportation through the nearby railway line, which unfortunately no longer exists. The town has experienced a decline over the years, with many businesses and services closing down.

Despite the challenges, the community's greatest strength lies in its unity and support for each other during difficult times. Local groups have worked hard to revitalize the town, with various art installations, sculptures, and renovations to iconic buildings like the Uniting church and the town hall.

The new silo artwork showcases a Wedge Tailed eagle, symbolizing the connection to the metal eagle in the Lions Park and paying homage to the traditional owners, the Kwat Kwat/Bangerang people. The left silo portrays indigenous figures camped along the Boosey Creek, and a Scar Tree runs down the center, connecting the two silos. The design also features local plants and rare wildflowers. The top right showcases the first passenger train engine that serviced Katamatite in its early settlement days. The bottom of both silos features a depiction of horses pulling a scoop to create irrigation channels, which played a crucial role in opening up the region to farming.

The hope for the painted silos is that they will become part of the North East Silo Art Trail, attracting visitors to the town and supporting local businesses. The Lions Op Shop has been instrumental in fundraising for the project, with all money raised going back into the community and contributing to the ongoing development of the site. The goal is to create an attractive viewing area with informative signs, seating, and landscaped areas that blend beautifully with the surrounding Broken Boosey State Park.

The vision is to transform the silo site from a target for graffiti and a dumping ground into a natural, scenic feature that enhances the park's beauty. The community believes that the silos' art will further rejuvenate the town and provide joy to both locals and tourists, encouraging visitors to spend time exploring and supporting the local businesses.

Overall, the GrainCorp Silos art project represents a beacon of hope for the community, celebrating its history, culture, and natural beauty while fostering a renewed sense of pride and vibrancy for Katamatite.

Source Julie Ballard of Katamatite