2026 Arts Captains, Rory Thompson and Sophie Gurung, developed an initiative to create a student-led mural at St Mary's. Their idea was to establish a mural painting activity as part of Mercy Day. Their proposal, which they presented to the College Leadership Team, encouraged students to work together to create a lasting visual representation of our community and Mercy identity. 

The project began with a call-out to all students through the College daily messages for design submissions. Students were invited to contribute their ideas, with the chosen design put to the School Leadership Team for approval. 

Once approved, students worked alongside Arts teachers and our Arts Technician to prepare the surface and transfer the design, ready for the whole College to create the painting on Mercy Day.

On Mercy Day, students came together to bring the mural to life, creating a lasting artwork that reflects student voice, creativity and community spirit. The project was a wonderful example of student leadership in action and showcased the collaborative efforts of students and staff in creating a meaningful contribution to our College environment.

Senior students have been adding the final details in their breaks, and the mural is now proudly displayed at the St Mary's Campus.

Artist statement:

My inspiration for my mural was Australian culture and my mum. Every time I ask my mum what to draw, she always replies with 'Blue wrens'. This time I didn't even bother asking and simply drew blue wrens and surrounded it with other pieces of Australian nature that are important to my mum and me. Such as the wattles that grow along the train lines each spring, the proteas that grow at my grandparents' house, which we take home sometimes, and the laugh of kookaburras followed by the inevitable 'look, they're laughing at you' joke. 

In the end, this mural is a tribute to my mum and all the things she loves. Thank you, Mum.

Chloe McCullough, Year 11