A Monument in Paint
Galga’s silo art tells stories of sacrifice and service

Galga, a small town in South Australia, has joined the region’s growing silo art trail. In April 2023, artist Jarrod Loxton completed a striking mural on the town’s 15-meter-high silo, adding a vibrant splash of colour to the rural landscape.

This artwork is part of a series along the old Mallee train line, joining other silo murals in Karoonda, Copeville, Waikerie, and Paringa.

What sets the Galga silo project apart is its private funding. Beverly and Trevor Heidrich, the silo owners, commissioned and financed the artwork themselves, bypassing the often lengthy process of community consultation and fundraising typically associated with such projects. This approach allowed for a swift completion, with Jarrod Loxton finishing the mural in just one month.

The artwork pays homage to local military history and healthcare workers. A prominent feature is a portrait of Beverly Heidrich’s step-grandfather, Hurttle Murdoch “Tom” Zilm, a World War II veteran who later dedicated his life to military education. The mural also honors nurses who served during wartime, including a tribute to Vivian Bullwinkel, the sole survivor of the 1942 Banka Island massacre.

Beverly Heidrich’s personal connection to the subject matter is evident in her choice of themes. She emphasized the importance of recognizing not only the well-known figures but also the “little ones” – nurses, ground army personnel, and all those who served in any war. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that the sacrifices of various military and medical personnel are remembered and respected.

The Galga silo art is Jarrod Loxton’s second project for the Heidrichs, showcasing the artist’s skill in large-scale mural painting. His work has contributed significantly to the growing trend of silo art in rural Australia, transforming functional agricultural structures into captivating public artworks that attract tourists and reinvigorate small communities.

This project demonstrates how private initiatives can complement community-driven public art projects, offering an alternative model for bringing art to rural areas. The Heidrichs’ commitment to “giving back to the community” through this artwork has not only beautified Galga but also created a poignant memorial to local and national heroes.