Rainbow project reaches new level

he Hindmarsh community of Rainbow is a step closer to benefitting from an ‘innovative tourism project’ following the signing of a long-term lease agreement and appointment of a project manager.

Hindmarsh Shire mayor Ron Ismay said the new tourist attraction, ‘unlike anything that has been seen before’, would involve transforming a 34-metre-high concrete grain silo into a ‘captivating, large-scale internal and external art installation’.

“In recent years, silo art has captured the imagination of travellers, with the Silo Art Trail across the Wimmera-mallee and to the northeast of Rainbow earning international recognition,” he said.

“What will set this project apart from existing silo art is the additional activation of the internal areas of the silo for a large-scale mural.”

Cr Ismay said this would enable visitors to view the inside of the silo and provide an opportunity for a unique art engagement, to be created on the internal silo bin walls.

“Topping this experience, literally, will be a viewing tower atop the silo, giving visitors the chance to enjoy expansive views of the Wimmera-mallee plains and Big Desert,” he said.

The council has been working on a concept development for the project – including access to the attraction – in partnership with the State Government and silo owner Llew Schilling.

Cr Ismay said this had been formalised, thanks to the signing of a long-term lease.

Simon Landrigan has been appointed project manager and will oversee the development alongside a project control group, which includes representatives from Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions, Visit Victoria, council and the community.

Cr Ismay said Mr Landrigan, already a member of the Hindmarsh Shire team, had broad experience delivering a wide range of infrastructure projects throughout the muncipaility.

He will be responsible for recruiting engineering specialists, designers and building contractors.

Cr Ismay, a Rainbow resident, said he was excited the project was starting to gather momentum.

“This is such an exciting project, not just for Rainbow but for the whole region and small rural communities generally,” he said.

“I remember climbing to the top of the silo as a youngster and can confirm the views from there are fantastic.

“In combination with the unique art installations it will be a great attraction and we look forward to welcoming people from far and wide to our town to enjoy the experience.”

People can call Mr Landrigan on 5391 4444 or email slandrigan@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au for more information about the project.