In a first for the Western Downs, Tara’s public spaces are set to be transformed by an innovative new placemaking project. Placemaking refers to a way of enhancing the atmosphere of a public space through urban design, landscaping and local community input, to create vibrant functional areas that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
The residents of Tara have already put forward some proactive suggestions for placemaking in the area and as a result, the pilot project for the Western Downs will be to transform the shop windows of the old Foodworks building in the main street with fresh new murals.
Western Downs Regional Council Spokesperson, Councillor Kaye Maguire, believes that this initiative will be a fabulous boost to the community of Tara. “We have been working closely with the Tara Futures Group in planning this pilot project, to ensure that we capture the essence of Tara, in working to make the town’s outdoor spaces more attractive,” she said. “Examples of enhancing a community space can be found in the painted Ergon Poles in the main street in Jandowae and the huge mural painted on the wall of the newsagent’s in Wandoan. Both of these projects received great community feedback. We are looking forward to receiving exciting new concepts from our local artists about how we can bring to life these shop windows.”
Council will be responsible for preparing and cleaning the glass prior to painting, providing the paint and other equipment as needed. The council are taking expressions of interest from new artists and hope to be able to create a diverse and cultured piece for the community of Tara.
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