Redesdale’s water tank mural captures
a decade of healing

In the heart of Regional Victoria, a remarkable piece of art stands as a silent sentinel, commemorating one of Australia’s darkest days.

The Redesdale water tank, transformed by artist Damian Arena in early 2019, serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating Black Saturday bushfires that swept through the region a decade earlier.

This extraordinary mural, wrapped around the tank’s cylindrical canvas, tells a story of destruction, resilience, and rebirth that resonates deeply with the local community and visitors alike.

The birth of a masterpiece

When Damian Arena set out to create this striking artwork, he faced the monumental task of capturing the essence of a community’s shared trauma and triumph. Drawing inspiration directly from the experiences of Redesdale’s residents,

Arena crafted a visual narrative that encapsulates the raw emotions and indomitable spirit of those who lived through the catastrophic events of February 7, 2009.

A day etched in memory

Black Saturday stands as a harrowing milestone in Australian history. As temperatures soared and winds raged, Victoria found itself engulfed in an inferno of unprecedented proportions.

The devastation was unimaginable: 173 lives lost, countless animals perished, and over 400,000 hectares of land reduced to ashes.

In Redesdale alone, the fires devoured 7,086 hectares and claimed 14 homes, forever altering the landscape and lives of its residents.

Art as a healing force

Arena’s mural does more than simply depict the events of that fateful day. It serves as a powerful tool for collective healing, allowing the community to confront their shared trauma and celebrate their resilience. The vibrant colours and evocative imagery invite viewers to reflect on the past while looking forward to a future built on strength and unity.

A beacon of hope

Today, the Redesdale water tank stands not just as a functional piece of infrastructure, but as a beacon of hope and a symbol of community spirit. Visitors to Agnes Mudford Reserve are invariably drawn to this unique artwork, which has quickly become a must-see attraction in the region. The mural’s ability to spark conversation and evoke emotion makes it an invaluable asset in keeping the memories and lessons of Black Saturday alive for future generations.

This remarkable piece of water tank art is a reminder of the incredible power of creativity to heal, unite, and the enduring strength of a community bound together by shared experience and unwavering determination.