Forget stuffy galleries. Around here, the art is painted on grain silos and water towers, visible from kilometres away and free to visit any time. Barham now has its own stunning mural right in town.
Completed in April 2025, Barham’s water tower at the Recreation Reserve on Gonn Street has become one of the town’s newest landmarks. Artist Gus Eagleton transformed the 23.7-metre tower into a three-sided masterpiece that tells the story of this region.
The first section features the Australian Light Horse, honouring the region’s Anzac heritage with George Rathbone on horseback from the local Anzac Day parade. The second panel celebrates Indigenous culture with a striking portrait surrounded by local wildlife – the long-neck turtle and river birds that hold deep significance to the Barapa Barapa people. The third side captures the Murray River at dawn, with the Barham Bridge framed by towering river red gums reflected in the water.
It’s a five-minute drive from BIG4 Barham Holiday Park, or a pleasant walk if you fancy stretching the legs. Best viewed in the early morning light when the colours really come alive.
Half an hour towards Swan Hill, Lake Boga’s GrainCorp silos were painted in 2023 by Tim Bowtell. The mural tells the town’s remarkable WWII history when it became a secret repair base for Catalina flying boats. The artwork features a Catalina aircraft and George “Scotty” Allan, the Scottish aviator who ran the operation. Set against a sunset backdrop with pelicans and water skiing scenes.
Pair it with a visit to the Lake Boga Flying Boat Museum to see a restored Catalina and learn the full story. Worth the detour.
About 90 minutes southeast via Echuca, Rochester has three silos painted by Jimmy D’Vate showcasing endangered local wildlife. The Azure Kingfisher and Squirrel Glider went up in 2018. A Platypus was added in 2021. There’s also a New Holland Honeyeater. The detail is incredible, and the silos are lit at night for a completely different viewing experience.
Rochester’s on the Northern Highway and there’s a decent viewing area with parking for caravans. The town also has street murals in Eddles Lane worth checking out while you’re there.
The beauty of silo art is you can see it any time. Dawn and dusk give the best light for photos, and some murals are illuminated after dark. Most sites have information boards explaining the artwork and artists.
From BIG4 Barham Holiday Parks, you can easily visit the local River Country Art Trail stops as day trips, or head towards Swan Hill or Echuca to pick up more of the Victorian trail. Pack a picnic, fill the car with fuel, and turn the drive into an adventure.
Big4 Barham Holiday Park is located in the friendly riverside town of Barham , in the heart of New South Wales’ Riverina region.
Barham is a quiet, welcoming town — perfect for holidaymakers looking to unwind, slow down, and reconnect with nature.
With plenty of things to see and do nearby, including swimming, kayaking, cycling along the Murray River, exploring national parks, and sampling local wines and gourmet produce, Barham offers a relaxing yet enriching escape.
