Media Release - Hawker Home to Australia's Best Entrance Art
The Flinders Ranges Council is absolutely thrilled that the Hawker Entranceway has received top honours at the 2023 Australian Street Art Awards as announced Friday 9 March 2024.
Mayor Ken Anderson said that the Hawker Entranceway project is a shining example of the commitment and collaboration between Council and the community.
“The Hawker Entranceway is a beacon of community pride, and beckons travellers to stop and explore the rich offerings of the region. Anchored by iconic 2m high ‘HAWKER’ signage, the project encompasses a powerful narrative of cultural preservation and community rejuvenation. The signage works as an ambassador for the town and region, encouraging travellers to immerse themselves in the unique offerings of Hawker before exploring the path less travelled through the Flinders Ranges.”
The Australian Street Art Awards recognises and celebrates outstanding contributions to street art projects that enrich the cultural fabric of communities across the country. Projects are evaluated based on creativity, community impact and their ability to inspire and engage.
Awards Director, Liz Rivers said “Artworks are unique and therefore clever communities promote their outdoor art, including welcome art, as a unique attraction that visitors can see in only one place.”
The judges congratulated The Flinders Ranges Council for investing in this sculptural work to maximise return from their public art. “We love that this entranceway holds a special place in the heart of its community and incorporates stylised elements that have helped forge Hawker’s modern identity from its ancient roots”, the judges said.
The Hawker entranceway was one of fourteen destinations recognised with a Gold Award for exceptional outdoor art across Australia this year.
The Flinders Ranges Council also won Silver in the 2023 Grey Nomad Award for Best Trail for the Flinders Ranges Self Drive Loop with Mayor Ken Anderson saying that “the popularity of this driving trail grows every day with visitors seeking different driving experiences.” Mayor Anderson also congratulated the Cradock Hotel on winning Bronze in the 2023 Grey Nomad Award for Best Pub Stay.
