Mt Archer takes an artistic seat - and a tourism gong

Next time you’re up on Mount Archer, take in the latest pieces of public art: three seats on the Nurim Circuit with designs created by a collaboration between a local Indigenous artist and non-Indigenous printmaker and designer.

The bench seat, a small platform seat and a third large bench were already up there, and the artwork was added through a recent collaboration between Ernest Garrett, a First Nations artist of Darumbal and Wulli Wulli heritage, and non-Indigenous artist Michelle Black.

Working with a palette of timber, stainless steel and rusted-look steel, the designs draw on the imagery and symbols of Mr Garrett’s original artwork, depicting gathering places along the river, local flora, and landscape views. 

Michelle’s work drew on symbols from the original artwork, which have been laser cut from steel and now grace the ends and backs of the seats.

Michelle says her contribiutions to the designs echo the surrounding landscape and vegetation.

“I was inspired by the twisted silhouettes of the towering pink bloodwoods, vistas of Tunuba [the Darumbal name for the Fitzroy River] seen winding though the western landscape, and the breathtaking ancient trachyte plugs that dot the landscape to the north.

“The original painting by Ernest Garrett, has been digitised to be laser cut and carved from rusted-look steel to feature in the seat end panels and as seat backs.

“I have used contemporary stainless steel to illustrate the inspiring landscape elements as a striking contrast to the rust and rustic timbers of the benches and Indigenous artwork.

“This project has brought together my skills as a printmaker and graphic designer and drew upon my skills from an earlier career as an urban designer.

“Working with Rebecca from Precision Engraving, we found that chemically etched stainless steel fit the bill perfectly for bringing my linoprint-styled drawings to life.

“The surfaces of laser cut and etched metals will be quite tactile - you might like to bring some paper and crayons to take a rubbing of the artworks!

Darumbal Liaison Officer Kristina Hatfield says it’s great to see the project installed.

“By embedding the artworks within the country that inspired them, it gives a sense of place and reinforces the strong connection of the Traditional Owners to the land.

“I am sure these artworks will enhance the experience of visitors to the area.”

Trip Advisor gong for redeveloped Mt Archer

With sweeping panoramic views, a boardwalk above the tree tops, and an adventure playground nestled among the bush, word of Mt Archer’s transformation is out, with Trip Advisor naming it a 2020 Travellers’ Choice Winner.

Cr Tony Williams & Annette Pearce check out the view from Mt Archer.

Rockhampton Regional Council’s Cr Tony Williams said the award was testament to just how fantastic Mount Archer and Nurim Circuit are.

“Everyone in our community knows just how spectacular this part of our region is, and now the rest of the world does too.

“A number of years ago Council set out a vision of what Mount Archer could be and we have worked hard ever since to help turn that vision into a reality. It’s wonderful to see that work recognised by Trip Advisor with a Travellers’ Choice Award.

“We have received funding from both the State and Federal Governments for projects on Mount Archer and we are very grateful for their support so this beautiful area can reach its potential.”

Tourism and Events Manager Annette Pearce said only the world’s best attractions can become Travellers’ Choice Winners.

“Each year Trip Advisor comb through reviews, ratings, and saves from travellers across the world, and use that information to award the very best.

“This award puts the world spotlight on our region as a holiday destination with an attraction that Trip Advisor travellers rate in the top 10% worldwide.

For now with COVID-19 travel restrictions, it gives Queenslanders yet another reason to visit our beautiful region while those further afield can add it to their wish list for when the borders reopen.

“The Rockhampton Region is fast becoming one of Queensland’s must see tourism destinations, which is great news for both our local residents and economy.”