The Benalla Rural City Council has received a State Government grant to initiate an iconic art trail experience in Benalla.

Following considerable analysis of potential sites and benchmarking against other similar cultural experiences, the most cost effective, viable option is to build an interpretive art trail and enhance the existing 4.25 kilometre Lake Benalla Walking Track.

It is recommended the art trail is executed in three stages. Council has received a small grant to successfully deliver Stage 1, recommending the installation of four artworks adjacent to the Benalla Art Gallery entry and Monash Bridge underpass.

Stage 2 and 3 are aspirational phases to be funded when, and if suitable external grant programs become available.

We welcome the community’s input.

Lake Benalla is a place where the Benalla central business district, cultural precinct and nature intersect.

The development of an arts trail around the lake precinct has the potential to create an identifiable mixed-use destination including open space, recreation, nature, culture, community, education, events and tourism.

Creating an iconic and credible artist trail in this location will embrace Benalla’s lakeside location and deliver the brand promise of See the Art in Everything.

Well planned, site specific, professionally executed and public art around Lake Benalla offers the opportunity to :

lead the viewer on a journey;

draw out concepts related to the site through social, historical and/or cultural themes;

enliven the space;

create new interactions and prompt conversation in the community;

become a signature experience which complements the landscape, enhances the existing site, supports tourism and delivers economic development objectives; and

create an iconic cultural asset, to position the Benalla Rural City as the premier cultural tourism experience in north east Victoria

The existing Lake Benalla Walking Track offers a tranquil 4.25 kilometre track, offering diverse and picturesque landscapes including the serene lake and meandering rivers, the exquisitely manicured Botanical Gardens, remnant River Red Gum forest, the Aboriginal Community Garden and Jaycee Island with its magnificent towering Moreton Bay Figs and exotic Bunya Bunya Pines.

Artistic credibility, relevant theming and a professionally executed installation program will ensure the delivery of an iconic, new cultural experience for all visitors to the Lake Benalla precinct to enjoy.

The following themes have been developed for consideration :

Proposed Stage 1. Theme

Connection and Collection

- works that reflect the significance of Benalla Art Gallery and Collection to the site and to enhance the connection with the Monash Bridge and CBD

Proposed Stage 2. Theme

Flora and Fauna

- works that create a sense of discovery and a visual connection to flora and fauna that is unique to north-east Victoria and particularly the Lake Benalla precinct

Proposed Stage 3. Theme

Looking for Legends

- works that provide a subtle connection, tell a story and provide an insight into Benalla’s history and heritage

Monash Bridge

Potential for activation under the bridge, particularly works that utilise light and reflection to deliver day and night activation. This site delivers the potential for different types of interaction and economic development opportunities.

Approach to Benalla Art Gallery

An opportunity to connect the landscaped grass area and the Benalla Art Gallery's key entry points, offering a complementary and subtle discovery experience for all user groups.