RSL mural comes to life

HEATHCOTE residents have been closely following the progress of a mural on the wall of the RSL hall.

Artist, Shawn Lu, was commissioned by Heathcote RSL Sub-Branch to paint the commemorative mural which depicts service men and women from across Australian military history.

“I am really pleased with how it’s coming together,” said Sue Fitton, who with husband Dan, helped to coordinate the project.

“Shawn is wonderful to work with and the whole town has embraced the project.

“He was given a simple brief and he understood exactly what we wanted and what would fit with the heritage of the town and surrounding buildings.

“He has been very accommodating, making time for everyone, and that makes it even more special.

“It has taken a while to get it organised but it is so worth it.

“The RSL Sub-Branch committee have been great and very supportive. They took a leap of faith when I found Shawn and suggested him for the project.

“Everyone has worked together and that makes it so much easier.”

Locals have been stopping daily to view the work in progress and Lu said he couldn’t be happier to pause and chat with them.

“I’ve worked in other country towns and they have all been great but Heathcote is amazing,” he said.

“The support has been overwhelming. Everyone is so friendly and positive.

“I don’t mind stopping for a chat, it helps to give everyone ownership of the project when they feel involved.

“On Australia Day, I had some kids stop by and I let them paint a small section. They will always remember that and years from now will be able to come back and show their families.”

The mural started as a grid on the wall, leaving many locals puzzled.

“I think they wondered if I was going to do a sci-fi painting,” said Lu, “but now they can see how it works.”

Lu said hopes to have the mural completed by the end of the week and it will be officially unveiled by the Heathcote RSL Sub-Branch at a later date.