Council is looking for a number of established and emerging mural artists or creatives to submit designs that tell the story of what our region means to you. Through grant funding from NSW Transport, Port Macquarie Hastings Council will transform Phillips Lane in Port Macquarie into a vibrant mural alley.

Artworks should evoke a strong sense of connection. This laneway will change from being an overlooked, utilitarian access lane to one of the region’s ‘hidden gems’, ready for discovery and promotion of local creative talent.

Phillips Lane

Phillips Lane, situated in Port Macquarie’s CBD between Peach Tree and Colonial arcades, is a central yet overlooked laneway that has enormous potential to become a creative drawcard for the region.

Council is calling for artists to transform this hidden asset into a laneway of dreams, attracting locals and visitors to experience stories from the region as told through a series of vibrant murals.

The project aims to:

• showcase local mural artists and talent through a laneway of public art
• enhance the CBD experience for residents and visitors
• increase foot traffic and visitation for local businesses
• create an ‘Insta-worthy’ space that will generate digital content and engagement
• weave laneways into the fabric of the CBD
• provide opportunities for local creatives
• promote and increase opportunities for investment in the CBD

Who can apply

This opportunity is open to all artists and designers who reside in the Port Macquarie Hastings local government area or mid north coast region. For First Nations artists who apply, Council follows the Australia Council Protocols for Using First Nations Cultural and Intellectual Property in the Arts (2019).

How to apply

Through the expression of interest (EOI) process, the guiding principles are:

• Spirit and integrity
• Cultural continuity
• Equity
• Reciprocity
• Respect

The Phillips Lane mural project is a unique opportunity to share stories of the Port Macquarie Hastings region through visual art. Council invites designs that convey and depict what the region means to you.

We invite you to bring a sense of fun to your design - vibrance, humour, positivity, whimsy.

Interactive - think of incorporating elements in your design that viewers can interact with

Landscapes and scenery - from the mountains to the sea, the beauty and diversity of our region

Nature and environment - beachscapes, views from the hinterland, forest walks - evocative favourite places, spaces and experiences

Life on our waterways - our creeks, rivers, estuaries and wetlands are magnificent. From traditional Sea Country living to aquaculture, such as oyster farming and fishing, life on the mid north coast has water at its heart.

Selection Process

Expressions of interest will be assessed by a public art panel. The panel will select the successful applicant based on the following criteria:

1. quality and originality of design concept
2. evidence of previous work and experience
3. the design can be easily transferred onto the project site.
4. demonstrate that they have experience in delivering high quality public art and/or they are willing to collaborate with an experienced mural artist to deliver the installation.
5. ABN and public liability insurance

To discuss any aspect of this project, please contact Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's Senior Cultural Officer on (02) 6581 8073 or via cultural.development@pmhc.nsw.gov.au

Project Timeframe:

Site briefing with artists -  TBC - January / February 

Assessment of EOIs and selection of successful design -  Week of 15/02/25

Successful applicant notified -  Week of 15/02/25

Procurement of experienced mural artist - if required -  TBC

Installation of artworks -  March 2025