General News
6 February, 2026
New public art for Newstead
Mount Alexander Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from artists for a new paid public art commission in Newstead.
Mount Alexander Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest from artists for a new paid public art commission in Newstead.
Council is refurbishing the public toilet block on Panmure Street, a well‑used visitor rest area near the community centre and main street. As part of this upgrade, an artist will be commissioned to create a wrap‑around mural that reduces graffiti and brings local stories to life.
Mount Alexander Shire mayor Toby Heydon said the project celebrates what makes Newstead unique.
“Public art plays a powerful role in celebrating who we are and the places we call home. This project is a wonderful opportunity for an artist to help tell some of Newstead’s stories, which are deeply connected to the Loddon River and the local environment,” he said.
“We’re excited to see how artists interpret the themes shared by local residents and bring them to life for everyone to enjoy.”
Community engagement highlighted strong interest in themes centred around the Loddon River, local plants, culturally significant trees and the town’s environmental values.
Located on Dja Dja Wurrung Country, the river has long sustained and shaped human life — from thousands of years of Traditional Owner connection through to more recent colonial histories of mining and agriculture.
The selected artist will have the opportunity to respond to the theme ‘Caring for the River’ and will work with the Newstead Landcare group to explore stories of recovery and rehabilitation on the riverbanks.
The project brief and technical information are available under Public Art Projects on council’s website. Submissions are welcome from artists across the shire and region.
Expressions of interest close on March 2, with the successful artist to be announced in April. It’s expected the mural will be installed in June.