MEDIA RELEASE - 23 July 2026
A new Community Courtyard Mural Project will transform the Noosa Visitor Information Centre into an even more welcoming and inclusive place for visitors, volunteers, Tourism Noosa members and the local community.
The project has created a vibrant outdoor courtyard designed as a place where people can enjoy a quiet moment, have lunch, share a cuppa or simply take time out in a calm and supportive environment.
Designed with accessibility and wellbeing in mind, the space offers a welcoming place of refuge for everyone, including people who may experience anxiety or live with a hidden disability.
The mural project complements the recently launched DV Safe Phone collection point at the Noosa Visitor Information Centre, further reinforcing the Centre's role as a welcoming and supportive place for both visitors and the wider community. The DV Safe Phone program provides a secure way for people to donate old mobile phones, which are professionally data-wiped, refurbished and distributed through domestic violence support services to victim-survivors in need.
Tourism Noosa CEO Sharon Raguse said the project reflects the evolving role of the Visitor Information Centre as much more than a place to access visitor information.
"The Visitor Information Centre has long been a welcoming place for visitors, but it has also become an important community hub where people come to connect, seek guidance and access support," Ms Raguse said.
"This courtyard has been thoughtfully created as a shared space that encourages connection, inclusion and wellbeing. It reflects the welcoming spirit of Noosa and provides somewhere people can pause, recharge and feel comfortable”.
"Alongside initiatives such as the DV Safe Phone collection point, the mural reinforces our commitment to creating a place that supports both visitors and our local community."
Mayor Frank Wilkie said the courtyard mural reflected the Noosa community’s reverence for, and attachment to, its beautiful places.
“The transformation of this space invites quiet reflection, connection and a reminder of how incredibly beautiful Noosa is,” Mayor Wilkie said.
“This project shows what can happen when local creativity, volunteer effort and community care unite to strengthen and celebrate our connection to this place.”
"The Visitor Information Centre continues to evolve as not just a gateway for visitors, but a place where people feel supported and part of the Noosa community. The addition of the DV Safe Phone collection point is another important example of that role, providing a safe, accessible place where the community can make a simple contribution that may have a life-changing impact for someone experiencing domestic and family violence.”
“Together, the new mural and the DV Safe Phone initiative demonstrate how the Visitor Information Centre is becoming a place of connection, inclusion and care for both our community and our visitors.”
The mural has been designed by local artist Ilana McBain, whose artwork is featured throughout the Visitor Information Centre. Ilana generously donated her time and talent to create the design, reflecting her ongoing commitment to giving back to the region she calls home. Paint was also generously donated by local family business The Paint Place Noosaville.
Inspired by themes of community pride, belonging and connection, the mural has been brought to life with the assistance of Tourism Noosa volunteers, staff, members and local community representatives, creating a lasting symbol of the shared values that make Noosa such a special place.
Artist Ilana McBain commented about her inspiration for the artwork.
“Some places have a way of reminding us how fortunate we are. This mural brings together two of Noosa’s most iconic landscapes – Little Cove Beach and Noosa National Park. They represent more than beautiful destinations; they are symbols of nature’s quiet power, beauty and generosity. Through this artwork, I wanted to celebrate that feeling of gratitude we experience when we slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with the world around us. It is a tribute to the extraordinary place we call home and a reminder to cherish and protect it for future generations.”
The completed courtyard will be officially unveiled on Tuesday 22 July at the Noosa Visitor Information Centre by Mayor Frank Wilkie.
ENDS
For media enquiries contact Susan Ewington, Tourism Noosa 0412 692 961 or susan@tourismnoosa.com.au
