Mural unveiled at Heathcote’s oldest vineyard

ALTHOUGH initially rejecting the idea of painting a mural, John Daniels unveiled a six-metre work at Red Edge winery last Saturday.

Daniels has been painting since he retired, usually on a much smaller scale.

“About 18 months ago, Peter Dredge from Red Edge mentioned he was thinking of having a mural done; a backdrop of vines,” said Daniels.

“I immediately said I’d make it a take on The Last Supper with his family, wine flowing, dogs, chooks, et cetera, but I wouldn’t do it. It’s not what I do.

“Then last summer a mural was being done on the RSL and it made me reconsider. And I was bored. I researched mural painting, approached Peter for approval and soon began.

“The hardest part was getting photos of all participants in the correct poses. One, Peter’s daughter’s partner, was in Ireland and sent a photo.”

Once started, the mural was soon completed in a few weeks.

“I used cheap watercolour; hence the drips, which I used to my advantage in parts,” Daniels said.

“We decided to make it portable, and I painted on boards 2.4 metres high by 1.2 metre wide at home.

“So, it’s six metres overall, fixed to a wall and under cover. I have decided to name it The Last Sipper.

“Hopefully it will add to people’s experience when they come this breathtaking spot so close to town.”

Overlooking the township, Red Edge is the oldest vineyard in Heathcote.

“The vineyard was originally started by Vern Weirtmann in 1971,” said current owner, Peter Dredge.

“He was a Swiss soil scientist working for the Board of Works in the 60s and chose this site because of the soil and aspect.

“When I purchased the property in 1994, I became custodian of the historic vines.”

The unveiling of Daniels’ mural coincided with the Red Edge Spring Fiesta, celebrating the end of winter. “Although I live in Heathcote, I’ve never been here before,” said visitor Sandra Kirby. “It is a hidden gem, and the pizza is delicious.

“John’s painting is stunning, absolutely fabulous.”

Red Edge is at 54 Golden Gully Road, Heathcote, and is open Monday to Saturday. More of Daniels’ work can be seen on Instagram @johndaniels9851.