Western suburbs veteran Allan Godfrey features on an Aintree mural created to reflect the spirit and dedication of those who served for Australia.
Melbourne-based street artist Amanda Newman was commissioned by developer Woodlea to bring the Caroline Springs and Melton RSLs voices to life via the mural.
The mural is between the Aintree Walk of Honour and the Remembrance Pond which collectively provides a place for learning, remembering, reflection and paying respects.
Newman said diversity and the inclusion of these perspectives were important factors throughout the design.
“My job was to bring the RSLs voices to life through my unique creative lens. After meeting with the RSLs and doing my own research, it was clear that the mural should represent all people affected by war – not
just specific RSL members. Diversity and the inclusion of a female perspective were important factors in the design that the RSL members were very vocal about,” she said.
A nod to those who have served our country, the 80-metre-long mural includes significant individuals who were involved in the Australian defence forces’ history, with the central figure a prominent RSL member and World War II veteran, Allan Godfrey.
It also features World War I serviceman Private Miller Mack and WWII service woman Vivian Bullwinkel
Melton RSL president Stephen Cook said the mural had made an impact in Aintree.
“We’re absolutely delighted with how beautiful it is. As an Aintree resident, it is just amazing to admire this each day as I drive past. It was a pleasure to be able to work with Amanda to bring this to life and recognise those who have served,” he said.
Woodlea acting project director Charbel Youssef said it is important that present and future generations recognise and honour service personnel with a local connection, and the mural was commissioned to
symbolise and amplify the community’s awareness, connection and experiences with Australian war history.
