UP&UP and Alesco partner for a student-created, 10-week-long mural project

A NEW, student-created mural has been unveiled on Irrawang Street, Raymond Terrace, born from a partnership between the creative engagement organisation UP&UP and Alesco.

As part of the Building Resilient and Inclusive Communities through Creativity program (BRICC), UP&UP led a free, 10-week-long workshop encouraging the participation of students at risk of disengaging from education or community life.

The aim of the program was to build up useful skills, inspire confidence and promote sociability.

“It was really fun. It really helped me tap into my creativity,” said Ash, one of the students involved in the creation of the mural.

“It’s not an obvious one, but it also really helped with confidence.”

“It’s a good way to meet new friends, get to know people,” added CJ, another student.

Sarah Fergus, head of wellbeing at Alesco, echoed these reactions.

“It’s been really lovely to see them forming social connections,” she said.

“I’ve watched them build confidence to approach their peers and have a good chat.”

The success of the program has been attributed to the fact that most of the students had no previous artistic experience, allowing them to see their skills build up slowly and steadily.

Faith Curtis, Director of UP&UP, told the students that the mural wasn’t just about painting a wall.

“It represents your ideas, your creativity, your teamwork, and the positive contribution you’ve made to your community,” Ms Curtis said.

Mayor Leah Anderson, who attended the inauguration of the mural, said “I look forward to driving past it and admiring it for many years to come.”

The BRICC program has been funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services and delivered with the support of Port Stephens and Families Neighborhood Services, Jupiter, and Hunter Water, on whose property the mural was painted.

UP&UP is planning more mural workshops during 2026 and 2027 in Kurri Kurri and Tanilba Bay.

By Nico LOMBARDO