New mural brightens the Maternal and Child Health Centre

Published on 22 August 2025

Mount Alexander Shire Council is excited to celebrate a new mural on the walls of Castlemaine’s Maternal Child Health Centre waiting room.

The artwork, which has been created by local artist Jane Ardley, is part of a broader plan to enhance the centre.

Last week, a new parent group gathered to celebrate the launch of the mural with Jane and Council staff.

Council’s Manager Community Partnerships, Alanna Cooper, said: “We are so pleased to be able to start enhancing the centre’s space to make it more welcoming and inviting for families.

“The mural adds a warm and playful feel to the foyer which is reflective of the feeling we want our visitors to have, said Ms Cooper.

“There are more works to come though. The centre is going to get a much-needed fresh coat of paint as well as new furniture.”

Castlemaine-based Jane Ardley specialises in abstract and contemporary art and was chosen out of four local artists to be commissioned for the installations.

Jane said she was appreciative of the care that the centre had offered her children.

“I am delighted and honoured to be given the opportunity to be involved in such a fantastic project to enhance the space”, said Jane.

“I have drawn inspiration from children's toys books, songs, bead mazes, kites and games like peekaboo and hide and seek.

"I have included playful, interactive lines to encourage a sense of wonder and exploration."

“These varied pathways converge around a central colour spectrum to celebrate and embrace the diverse families within our community.

Merryn Tinkler, Manager Economy and Culture said that she was proud to be supporting an emerging artist in her first commission.

“Jane’s work is edgy, fun and engaging and I look forward to seeing her career progress over the coming years, said Ms Tinkler.

“She has done such an amazing job on a limited budget, and we are so lucky to have her artwork displayed at the centre for the community to enjoy.”

Find out more about the mural at www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/MCH-mural.

Image: New parents and babies celebrate the mural.