Gallery: Decorative bin enclosures turning heads in Mapleton
Once plain and overlooked, bin enclosures around Mapleton village are now turning heads and attracting tourists thanks to a vibrant new public art initiative that celebrates the region’s natural beauty and local artistic talent.
The project, spearheaded Mapleton Art members features a series of painted art panels with a unifying theme: Flora and Fauna of the Region. From native birds perched on blooming wildflowers to vividly coloured mammals, the artworks are transforming once-mundane utility spaces into dynamic, open-air
galleries.
Local artists were commissioned to create the pieces, which are now on display across the key public area—Obi Obi Road shopping. Each bin enclosure has been uniquely designed to reflect the surrounding environment, making each one a visual landmark of its own.
With the assistance of Blackall Range Lions members, the panels were installed.
“This project is not only about beautifying public spaces,” said project coordinator Nita C Lester. “It’s about showcasing the incredible talent we have right here in our community. Every brushstroke tells a story of our connection to the land.”
The initiative brought together artists of all ages and backgrounds. For muralist Tom Davies, whose depiction of birds mid-flight now adorns the bin outside the Mapleton Bakery, the opportunity was personal.
“I wanted to give something back to the village that welcomed me with open arms,” he said. “It’s rewarding to know that something I painted is now part of the village’s everyday life.”
Locals have embraced the project with enthusiasm, and visitors are taking notice. The art panels have become an unexpected tourist attraction, drawing visitors who follow the ‘Mapleton Art Trail’ created by Mapleton Art. Small businesses nearby have reported increased foot traffic, with cafés and shops benefiting from the artistic buzz.
“It’s brought new life to our streets,” said Carol Browne. “People stop to take photographs and chat about the art. It’s sparking conversations and bringing smiles.”
The initiative has also ignited a sense of pride among residents. Social media has been flooded with photographs and positive comments from community members celebrating the transformation of everyday spaces into expressions of identity and creativity. Numerous images have been sent overseas placing Mapleton Queensland, on the map.
With the success of the current series, Mapleton Art is planning to expand the programme, inviting schools and community groups to take part in the next phase. There are even talks of adding interactive digital components to future murals, such as QR codes that share information about the featured species or artist.
For now, though, the village is basking in the colour, creativity, and connection the project has brought to its streets.
“It’s more than paint on walls,” Nita says. “It’s a reminder of who we are, what we value, and how beautiful our shared spaces can be.”
On Monday October 20, at 11am, you can join the community, Cr David Law and the President of the Sunshine Coast Arts Foundation, and listen to the artists tell their stories.
