Local teens have left their meaningful mark on downtown Beaudesert through a new mural designed and created around the concept of youth mental health and celebrating diversity.
Seven young locals collaborated with Headspace Beaudesert to create the colourful public artwork, titled ‘Hit the Wall’, in the Woolworths carpark.
They did it through funding from the Scenic Rim Regional Council Community Grants program, which offers financial support to not-for-profit community groups for projects and events which benefit the region.
The young people worked hard over 6 weeks to conceptualise, design and paint the wall, which was unveiled on 15 February.
The Beaudesert Bulletin caught up with local youth Jess Mole, Sophia Perri, Oliver Gray and Addy Schroeders, who were among local youth working on the project alongside Headspace Community Engagement Coordinator Dale Shaddick.
Sophia, 15, said she found the experience valuable.
“I’ve enjoyed getting to meet new people and being part of something that’s going to be in Beauy for a while and it’s kind of fun working with a bunch of cars passing by and seeing this thing in progress,” she said.
In a statement, Stride, which operates Headspace, said it was about connection.
“Some young people struggle with their mental health and can feel isolated and disempowered especially in regional or remote communities where there is minimal public transport and less services,” the statement said.
“Art can be therapeutic as a means of self-expression and connection. The mural contains the phone numbers for headspace Beaudesert and Kids Helpline. This was important for the young participants involved in this project to share this information for other young people who may be seeking support.”
Stride Regional Manager Ash Simpson said participation of young people was a key driver.
“I’d like to thank the local community for their enthusiasm and encouragement for the mural,” he said.
“The positive feedback from passers-by during the wall’s painting made the artists and Headspace staff feel very supported.
“Murals can bring social and cultural benefits to regional communities. They not only add beauty to a space, but they also spark conversations and connections by contributing to a sense of place and identity.”
