Palmwoods State School students have played their part in breathing new life into an amenities block in Palmwoods, with a bright mural and new welcome sign.

Palmwoods State School Year Five students worked closely with Sunshine Coast Council staff and commissioned local artist David Houghton on the Margaret Street project.

Mr Houghton said the students designed the inspiration and ideas for the final mural work, and he was impressed by their ideas for the existing toilet block.

“We facilitated a workshop at the Palmwoods State School where the students painted about what they love about Palmwoods – their results formed part of the ideas that went toward the mural,” he said.

“For the most part we found the student’s painted about natural elements, in particular the backyard birds. “Working with the youth is always fun, their ideas and seeing the way they come up with concepts for the painting was great to see.”

Bright coloured walls displaying native birds have been splashed across the amenities block, both inside and out, along with a new ‘Welcome to Palmwoods’ sign for residents and visitors to enjoy when walking, driving or riding by.

“I didn’t want to use heavy colours, instead colours that would freshen-up the block. I also wanted to use two main tones which worked well with the symmetry and use of the facility,” said Mr Houghton.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 5 Councillor Jenny McKay was pleased there was now a warm and welcoming entry to the town.

“Art in public places enables our community to connect, reflect and be inspired by the place we live,” said Cr McKay.

“It was really great to see students taking time to lend a hand and be a part of the artistic process.

“This project was a true collaboration and I would like to thank all those who shared their insight and talent to bring it to fruition.”

Although the toilet block was in good working condition, lighting has been upgraded to new LED fittings and lights to see the sign day or night.

An anti-graffiti coating has also been used on the amenities block, while timber cladding and seating has enhanced the façade.