04 Mar 2025
Tolosa Park reservoir mural celebrates Tasmania’s water journey
TasWater’s award-winning Asset Art Program has reached another milestone, with the completion of a striking new mural at Tolosa Park in Glenorchy.
The large-scale artwork, created by local artist Harrison Bowe in collaboration with Vibrance Projects, now adorns the two reservoir tanks at Tolosa Park.
Bowe’s design of Mount Gould and the Styx River, selected by the community, seamlessly blends into the surrounding environment while illustrating the journey of water through Tasmania’s stunning landscapes.
The mural serves as both an artistic statement and an educational piece, encouraging residents to appreciate the origins of their water supply.
“The concept behind the works was to provide a visual representation of the course water takes to end up in these tanks and effectively their homes,” Bowe said.
“I don’t believe everyone is aware just how far the catchment of the Derwent River stretches - part of the watershed boundary being the Du Cane range depicted in the work.”
He also highlighted the impact of public art in reimagining infrastructure.
“This site is now no longer just a piece of infrastructure – it allows art to be accessible to everyone,” Bowe said.
“You don’t have to go to an art gallery or museum. It is there for everyone to share - this work was one for the people.”
TasWater General Manager Customer and Community Matt Balfe said the Asset Art Program began in 2017 as an innovative approach to discouraging graffiti on TasWater infrastructure.
“The program has since evolved into a community-driven initiative, making what would otherwise be bland, concrete utility assets a real source of pride,” he said.
“Since its inception, 24 sites across Tasmania have been transformed, with three more planned for 2025.”
Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey praised the initiative and the positive impact it has on the community.
“The Asset Art Program not only beautifies our public spaces, but also fosters a sense of pride and connection among our residents,” Mayor Hickey said.
“The Tolosa Park mural is a wonderful addition to Glenorchy, celebrating our natural environment while educating people about the journey of our precious water supply.
“We hope it becomes a landmark in its own right, bringing people to our municipality, which has an ever-growing reputation for world class art.”
Vibrance director Jonny Scholes said the organisation was proud to have been a part of the project.
“It’s not every day you get to witness a mural project that starts with the artist climbing mountains and kayaking down rivers,” he said.
“We're sure the community will love this artwork and it'll become a landmark in the area.”
Explore the interactive map of TasWater’s existing infrastructure artworks here: Asset Art Program | TasWater