A small town in South Australia’s Mallee region has just completed the second half of its remarkable silo mural project — and the result is a bold, emotive tribute to the heart and grit of rural life.
Painted by internationally acclaimed artist Sam ‘Smug’ Bates, the newly finished western silo in Lameroo now stands beside its 2024 counterpart, telling a story across two towering canvases that captures the past and present in vivid detail.
At the centre of the new work is a woman cradling a child against the backdrop of a golden sunset, a powerful symbol of motherhood and the evolving role of women in agriculture.
The project was driven by local volunteer group Lameroo Forward Inc., whose team spent four years turning the community’s vision into reality. From the very beginning, it was a collaborative effort.
“We knew that for our silos to have maximum impact, we needed community buy-in. They had to resonate and feel like they were part of not just the final artwork, but the whole process,” explained Nicole McMahon, volunteer Lameroo Forward Inc. Chairperson.
Through surveys and workshops, locals shared what mattered most to them — a celebration of their agricultural roots, something modern and meaningful, and a style grounded in realism.
Colour was key. So was storytelling. And with Smug’s hyperrealist approach, the town found its perfect match.
The contrast between the two silos is striking. The eastern artwork portrays a traditional male figure against a backdrop of early farming life. The western mural, meanwhile, honours the enduring presence of women in the field, offering a nuanced, complementary perspective.
“While opposing in many ways, the artworks also portray an underlying theme of resilience, determination and sacrifice,” Nicole said.
“They capture authentic rural life and the farming community’s growth and transformation.”
The impact has already been far-reaching. Visitors have made detours, extended stays, and rearranged trips just to see the murals unfold.
“One family who were in Lameroo when Smug started the western silo changed their plans to return in time for the final reveal,” said Nicole.
“Another couple ended up staying for three weeks so they wouldn’t miss it.”
Locals have also embraced the project wholeheartedly. The murals aren’t just art, they’ve become a symbol of renewed pride and connection.
“There’s been a real uplift in community morale. The silos have united the town — which is especially important given the tough farming conditions this season,” Nicole shared.
In sync with the artwork, Lameroo’s town centre has undergone a major facelift. A $2 million upgrade has delivered new lawns, a modern playground, caravan parking, a dog park, and refreshed public spaces — all with the new murals proudly anchoring the main street.
Unlike many silo artworks tucked away on the outskirts, Lameroo’s sit front and centre. They’re impossible to miss, and that’s the point.
“We’ve been able to create a lasting legacy that celebrates our story,” said Nicole.
“It’s given us the confidence to keep going. We used to say, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if…’ Now it’s, ‘We can do this.’”
Lameroo Silo Art
Where: 90 B12, Lameroo
For more information, click here.
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