Community collaboration inspired a larger-than-life mural that celebrates a Gold Coast school’s 50-year anniversary.
St Francis Xavier School Runaway Bay first opened its doors in January 1975 and this year unveiled the artwork created by former student-turned professional mural artist Austin Nitsua.
Principal Ronan O’Mahony said the artwork, which was designed with community consultation and input from local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elder Uncle Lann Levinge, painted a picture of legacy.
Mr O’Mahony said the vibrant mural featured the school’s namesake, Saint Francis Xavier, alongside symbols that held special meaning for the local community.
“We wanted to be able to offer a beautiful piece of art to residents on the daily commute while reconnecting the Church’s history for our students,” he said.
“In the main mural the rays of light is a reference to our school motto, ‘Let Your Light Shine’, and the seagull symbolises the site on which the school is located, which was originally tidal wetlands.”
Mr Nitsua said the project brought back fond memories of his attendance at the Brisbane Catholic Education school, after arriving from New Zealand.
“It feels incredible to come full circle and work on a project for the school that gave me such a positive and nurturing start,” he said.
“The memories I have here, especially the kindness of one teacher in particular, Mrs Anne Weston have stayed with me over the years.
“She played a huge role in making me feel welcome, and she always had a remarkable sense of care, which I’ll never forget.”
