Discover the story behind the Bilby Art Trail
Learn about the inspiration, community involvement (fun) and future dreams for Charleville's unique outdoor gallery.
The heart of the Bilby Art Trail
The Bilby Art Trail began as a celebration of Charleville's special connection to the endangered bilby and the important conservation work happening in our region. This project was created by the Charleville & District Cultural Association Inc to bring art, community, and conservation together.
Pictured with artist Anna Battle are our dedicated (and many more superlatives) Bilby Committee
(L-R) Billie Cook, Richard Ranson, Allison Edwards, Jill Usher, Sandra Richardson, Lesley MacDonald, Maree Phillott, Carmel Williams, Cr Teri Sommerfield.
Bringing bilbies to life
Artists were invited to transform concrete bilby sculptures, designed by Derlot in Brisbane, into unique works of art. Each bilby tells its own story through colour, creativity, and design.
Before the artists came our fabulous volunteer committee with cleaner, undercoat and primer! After the artists had completed the artwork, our local panel beater (Jones Smash Repairs) applied the final protective finish, thank you Clifford for your time and expertise!
The sculptures are now placed throughout Charleville, creating an outdoor gallery for visitors and locals to explore.
Community spirit in action
The trail celebrates our talented artists, encourages people to discover more of Charleville and, most importantly, helps raise awareness of the bilby and the need to protect this remarkable Australian animal. The Charleville Cultural Association formed a sub-committee specifically for the Bilby Trail, demonstrating deep community involvement.
How big? how heavy? how bilby?
Brisbane design studio Derlot have provided the foundation for the artists to bring our BILBIES to life.
From the concept design and mould to the engineering and concrete casting process they have created the BILBIES fabricated from waste concrete.
BIG BILBY FACTS
Each bilby is:
- 300kg Solid Cement
- 1025mm length
- 570mm width
- 775mm height
COMPARE: The Greater Bilby is “about 290 - 550mm in length... At 1 to 2.4 kilograms, the male is about the same size as a rabbit... The female is smaller, and weighs around 0.8 to 1.1 kilograms.”
Other Projects from the Charleville Cultural Centre
Charleville Water Tower Mural
Artist: Guido van Helton
This exciting project used sport as a way to bring people together. Guido consulted with many local young people, families and community leaders, exploring the connections, diversity and community spirit that make rural Queensland special.
The Charleville mural celebrates the friendships, teamwork and sense of belonging found in the bush, and in this case, on the football field.
The mural tells the bigger story about drought affected communities — their people, resilience, diversity and strong sense of community. By bringing sport, art, culture and rural stories together, creating something that locals can be proud of while attracting visitors interested in experiencing the unique stories of South West Queensland.
Charleville Cenotaph Wall
Cenotaph Memorial Wall - commemorating 100yrs of ANZAC
Funding obtained from Community Benefit Fund in February 2016, project committee worked with Charleville RSL Representatives George Donohue and Greg Field. Urban Design Systems were engaged to complete a concept design for the laser cut panels (which is lit and looks lovely at night). Charleville Construction & Tiles completed the construction along with Murweh Shire employees Carpenter Rod Gallegos and Electrician Bock Wright.
The Memorial wall was officially opened at the dawn service on ANZAC Day 25/04/2018. A time capsule was placed at the cenotaph following the service.
Our vision for the future
The Bilby Art Trail aims to enhance cultural tourism, provide professional opportunities for artists, and foster community pride. We hope the trail inspires you to explore, enjoy the artwork, and learn more about the bilby that is such an important part of our local identity.