The story behind the mural for Coast2Bay’s new Birra Wandum (Beerwah complex), in partnership with Kabi Kabi Housing Corporation, began with a road trip. After visiting the site together, local artists Alison and Shauna spent the day exploring the region, taking in the mountains, landscapes and stories that make Beerwah unique. The day also happened to be Shauna’s birthday, making the experience even more memorable. At lunch overlooking the Glass House Mountains, ideas began to emerge, with sketches, conversations and shared observations slowly forming the foundations of the artwork.
Drawing inspiration from a topographical view of Mount Coonowrin, a significant women’s business mountain, Shauna began developing a design that reflects the many layers woven through the region. The artwork speaks to layers of life, layers of history and the stories that continue to shape the landscape today. Alison helped bring the concept to life through colour and composition, introducing rich greens inspired by the surrounding landscape and bold blues that create energy and movement across the wall. Together, the artists, each bringing their own experiences and perspectives, have interpreted an important local story for the next generation.
Although they have collaborated on previous projects, including a large-scale mural in Noosa, this piece was deeply influenced by their time spent exploring Beerwah together. The finished artwork honours the stories that came before, while looking ahead to those still to come. As a hand-painted mural, it also carries the small imperfections that make every brushstroke uniquely human. For Alison and Shauna, those imperfections are part of the story. They are a reminder that imperfect action still creates something meaningful. Their hope is simple: that every time Beerwah residents walk past, they feel a sense of warmth, connection and pride in the place they call home. It is a reminder that every new chapter begins with a story, and that this story is now part of Beerwah’s future.
Together, the artists, each bringing their own experiences and perspectives, have interpreted an important local story for the next generation.
