New wave: surf mural rolls back into spotlight
The beloved 'Old Cane Shed Surf Mural’ in Bli Bli has been masterfully recreated and unveiled in a new location on Godfreys Road.
Crafted by renowned local artist Owen Cavanagh, this vibrant piece of art now adorns a new structure on Sunshine Coast Council-owned land in Bli Bli.
The surf mural is visible from the Sunshine Motorway when heading north shortly after the Maroochy River bridge, near the Amateur Radio Station and old toll booth location.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said recreating the mural would ensure its legacy continued to inspire and captivate residents and visitors.
“The surf mural has long been a symbol of our coastal lifestyle and surf culture, and I’m thrilled it has been given new life and can be enjoyed once again,” Cr Suarez said.
“The original mural had been located on a cane shed wall that had reached the end of its life.
“The new artwork beautifully captures the essence of our beaches and celebrates the vibrant surf culture that is an integral part of our identity here on the Sunshine Coast.
“The spirit of the ‘Old Cane Shed Surf Mural’ lives on in its new home and is a must-see for anyone traveling through the area.”
The beloved 'Old Cane Shed Surf Mural’ in Bli Bli has been masterfully recreated and unveiled in a new location on Godfreys Road.
Surf on the beach
Artist Owen Cavanagh said the mural, officially named ‘Yaroomba’ (meaning ‘surf on the beach’ in the Kabi Kabi language) was inspired by his love of our beautiful Sunshine Coast and those perfect surf days.
“I'm super stoked to see the wave mural back in all its glory including solar lighting,” Mr Cavanagh said.
“I find it hard to believe 24 years on and it has a new home and lives on for all to enjoy.
“The mural reminds us to look after our precious ocean and wildlife, something that I am personally very passionate about.
“A special thank you to Sunshine Coast Council and all our wonderful local community for their support for basically a quarter of a century.”
Sunshine Coast Airport General Manager People and Communications Kylie Ezzy said the surf mural was an important part of the Coast’s history.
“To see the new mural on full display for both locals and visitors to enjoy is incredible,” Ms Ezzy said.
“The Airport is delighted to have collaborated with Council to ensure the artist's mural continues to inspire in its new, highly visible location.
“The Airport is also arranging for the 'Old Cane Shed Surf Mural' to be fittingly retired to Canefields Distillery on a local cane farm.”