A memorial mosaic for Burnett Heads, a soaring steel dragonfly for Innes Park and a community photography activation in the Bundaberg CBD are set to become the latest creative drawcards for the Bundaberg Region.
Bundaberg Regional Council approved the public art proposals at its Ordinary Meeting on 26 May as part of the Bundaberg Region Public Art Masterplan.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the approved artworks would enhance the amenity of the areas in which they will be located.
“Public art plays an important role in contributing to the vibrancy of our public spaces,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“These new artworks will provide an attractive focal point for community and visitors in these areas.
“It is wonderful to see the artists leading these projects involving community members in the creation of the artworks, helping to instil a sense of communal ownership and pride in the outcomes.”
Burnett Heads Memorial Community Mosaic
A new mosaic reflecting themes of wartime service and the lighthouse as a guiding symbol of home will be installed on the pump shed wall at Burnett Heads Memorial Park
Led by artist Paul Perry of Milpi Magic Mosaics, the project engages local volunteers to contribute to the artwork’s creation, helping to foster community connection, storytelling and civic pride.
This mosaic adds to the suite of mosaics Paul has installed across coastal communities, creating a series of colourful artworks appreciated by visitors and locals alike.
Gum’mama in Flight – Dragonfly Sculpture
“Gum’mama in Flight”, by artist Kevin Dekker, is a site-specific stainless-steel sculpture inspired by the Taribelang Bunda dragonfly symbolising transformation, resilience and connection to land and water.
Measuring 2.5 m high with a 3.2 m wingspan, it will be mounted on an existing basalt boulder in the Logan Road roundabout intersection within Headlands Esplanade, creating a landmark entry feature for Innes Park.
The submission, from artist Paul Perry, adds to the ongoing public art installations he has undertaken at Bargara Headlands Estate.
Given the nature of the artwork materials and the potential for corrosion in the coastal environment, Council approved the artwork for a limited lifespan, with its condition to be reviewed after five years.
I See You Bundy!
This community photography project, led by professional photographer William Debois, will see participants take guided photo tours of Bundaberg’s CBD, using disposable film cameras to capture overlooked urban details.
The project will culminate in a public activation that transforms street-facing windows into large-scale artworks, fostering mindful observation and connection to place.
Council approved the project as an ephemeral public art installation, with selected images to be exhibited alongside a QR code-based interactive self-guided activity for six months.
The project was commended for aligning strongly with Council’s Safe Spaces, Thriving Places initiative to revitalise the Bundaberg CBD.
