New Murals Bring History to Life at Stawell Athletic Club

Date: 21st February 2025

The exterior of the Stawell Athletic Club, home of the iconic Powercor Stawell Gift, has been transformed into a striking visual celebration of its rich history thanks to local artist Kyle Torney. 

The new murals, now adorning the walls of the historic venue’s Hall of Fame facing onto the Central Park athletics field, pay tribute to the legendary sprinters, defining moments, and deep traditions that have made the Stawell Gift one of Australia’s most revered sporting events.

Torney, known for his ability to capture stories and emotion through art, worked meticulously to bring the project to life. Using his signature style, he has depicted all the key elements of a Stawell Gift race, creating a visual timeline from the starters to the final presentation of the trophy.

“These murals are a celebration of what makes the Stawell Gift so special,” said Torney. “It’s about honouring the athletes who have graced this track, the stories that have been passed down, and the enduring legacy of this event in Australian sport.”

The project has been met with widespread enthusiasm from both the local community and visiting athletes. The murals not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the Stawell Athletic Club but also serve as a lasting tribute to the event’s proud heritage.

Stawell Athletic Club President Shev Healy expressed her gratitude to the Northern Grampians Shire Council who contributed a public art grant as well as Regional Arts Victoria and the local businesses who also donated towards the cost of the artwork.

 “We chose local artist Kyle for the job after he submitted an impressive draft design, said Shev. “He has done an incredible job in capturing the essence of the Stawell Gift. These murals are a wonderful addition to the club and a fitting tribute to the athletes and stories that define this great event.”

Kyle is a St Arnaud native and has gained international recognition for his work, with exhibitions in the New York Art Gallery. However, he is best known locally for his impressive silo and street art, including the prominent mural in the heart of Halls Gap near the well-known ice cream shop, where he has portrayed local children as future leaders. In addition to large-scale public artworks, Torney also creates Renaissance-inspired pieces in private homes and is currently working on an intricate ceiling fresco in Perth.

With the new mural now complete, the Stawell Athletic Club stands as both a gallery of sporting history and a source of inspiration for future champions. As visitors and competitors gather for this year’s Powercor Stawell Gift, they will be welcomed by a vivid tribute to the race’s unique legacy, its remarkable history, and the athletes who have left their mark on its famous track.

 

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