Galga, Silo Art - South Australia

The Galga Silo Art, painted by artist Jarrod Loxton, was completed in April 2023. Loxton was commissioned by private landowners Beverly and Trevor Heidrich to create the mural on the silos in Galga and Copeville.

The artwork pays tribute to local soldiers and nurses, including Vivian Bullwinkel, a POW and the sole survivor of the 1942 Bank Island tragedy. Galga becomes the latest addition to the Mallee silo art trail, which includes works in Karoonda, Copeville, Waikerie, and Paringa. This is the second silo that Jarrod Loxton has painted for the Heidrichs, and the project took one month to complete.

Beverly and Trevor Heidrich have significantly added color to the town of Galga with the help of Loxton. Silo art typically requires long periods of consultation, fundraising, and cooperation from the community and local government. However, the Heidrichs bypassed this process by financing the 15-meter silo project entirely on their own.

Beverly Heidrich shared, "It's just our way of giving back to the community," highlighting that the central figure in the mural is her step-grandfather, Hurttle Murdoch "Tom" Zilm, who fought in WWII and dedicated his life to education and military service.

Additionally, Ms. Heidrich chose to honor nurses, including Vivian Bullwinkel, for their sacrifices during wartime. "Her story really tugged at my heart," she said. "We must remember the nurses, the ground army, and everyone who served in any war.

They all deserve recognition." Ms. Heidrich made sure the silo art reflects the nurses' vital contributions and sacrifices.