Cowell Silo Art - South Australia

The Cowell silos were painted by Austin ‘! N I T S U A’ Moncrieff, with assistance from Michael ‘Schmick’ Motteran-Smith, and the artwork was completed on September 18, 2019. Schmick also contributed to a stunning mural near the silo location.

The centerpiece of the silos is local legend Lionel Deer, depicted alongside his camel, Diamantina. Lionel is a beloved figure in Cowell, known for bringing his camels to the Cowell Christmas Pageant for over 30 years. He stirs up fond memories for many in the community and has become an integral part of Cowell’s history. Known for his generosity and kindness—famously the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back if he ever wore one—Lionel is a true representation of the town’s spirit. A descendant of early settlers from a large farming family, Lionel has worked as a shearer, earned three mail medals, and is a passionate football fan. He is also a prankster and a larrikin, always offering a smile and a wave to everyone who crosses his path.

The mural also features a Port Lincoln Parrot and a nearby farmhouse ruin, adding further depth and character to the artwork.

This project was made possible through the dedication of the Franklin Harbour Community Development Group, community fundraising, and a grant from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.



Special thanks go to Crowies Paints of Port Lincoln for their generous donation of paint and the free hire of an electronic paint gun, as well as Cleve Hardware Pty Ltd and Meridian Energy Mt Miller for their support.