The commission for the 250-metre-long noise wall on Spearwood Avenue was driven by an Expression of Interest (EOI) process, with a clear brief: create something simple, bright, and fun to replace the drab green wall that local residents disliked. The wall’s primary viewers were drivers passing by at speeds of up to 70 km/h, so intricate details were not ideal. What was called for was a design that would be visually striking from a distance, with a focus on bringing colour and life to the area.

To ensure the design reflected the unique spirit of the area, Haylee held a one-hour community consultation workshop. The feedback she received highlighted what the locals cherished about their suburb, from the vibrant market gardens to the natural beauty of the wetlands and the coastline. This insight became foundational to the mural, reflecting the residents’ experience of their environment through the lens of plants and flowers.

The mural itself is divided into three distinct sections, each representing a part of the suburb’s ecosystems - market gardens, wetlands, and the coastal zone. Beginning with the rich green of market gardens, symbolised by flowers and the famous Spearwood onion, the mural moves into the wetlands, incorporating iconic plants like banksia, gum trees, and bulrushes. The final section, the coastal zone, features elements like pigface, Geraldton wax flowers, and seaweed, capturing the essence of the sea.

The mural, painted by Haylee and a team of assistants over nine days, is more than just an aesthetic improvement—it is a canvas for community pride.