Media Release - Local Projects Finalists in Australia Street Art and Grey Nomad Awards
The Flinders Ranges Council is excited to have three (3) projects nominated as finalists in two programs of the Niche National Tourism Awards.
The Flinders Ranges Council nominated the Hawker Entranceway under the Best Entrance Art category and the Cradock War Memorial under Best Monument or Memorial category of the Australian Street Art Awards, while The Flinders Ranges Self-Drive Loop is nominated under the Best Grey Nomad Trail category of the Grey Nomad Awards. The nominations were made to promote the hard work of Council and the community, and to celebrate these fantastic projects. All three projects are finalists in their respective categories.
Mayor Ken Anderson is thrilled with the announcement. “The Hawker Entranceway project is the result of a lot of hard work by Council staff, who saw the vision and worked with the design contractors and local Indigenous artist, Juanella McKenzie, to create an entranceway that would entice visitors to stop and see what else Hawker has to offer.”
The stunning entranceway artwork encourages travelers, who may have otherwise passed by, to turn off the highway and visit this unique outback town. “Feedback from local businesses and tourists tells us that the entranceway statement really does work. It acts as a visual magnet that encourages visitors to engage with the town's community and enjoy its offerings, including first-class cafes and unique tourism experiences. Council has also recently upgraded Hawker’s public amenities, parking area and Blue Burt Park, which combine to offer visitors an overall positive experience, encouraging them to stay longer and explore further.”
Another finalist, The Cradock War Memorial, offers an immersive experience which has been created through the dedication and hard work of the Cradock Heritage Group, headed by Maurie and Maggie Burke.
“Council has supported this project over the years, through in-kind support and auspicing of funds, but the real credit must go to the Cradock Heritage Group.” Mayor Anderson said. “Maurie and Maggie Burke and several other locals, have contributed a huge amount of time and effort to create an impressive memorial to those who served in all wars and conflicts and those who are still serving today.”
Visitors come from far and wide to attend memorial services. “People from all over Australia have heard about the Cradock War Memorial and travel, often returning annually, to attend Anzac Day and Remembrance Day Services there. Returning visitors regularly find there have been new additions to the War Memorial, such as the recently installed Australian Artillery 25-Pounder Field Gun. The Cradock War Memorial recently received funding from the Australian Governments - ANZAC Day Commemoration Fund, through Veterans SA, for the installation of a unique galvanised wire sculpture that will honour the Light Horsemen recruited during the First World War. This installation will complete the Cradock War Memorial experience.”
Australian Street Art Awards Director Liz Rivers said “Being shortlisted in these Awards further cements the reputation of the Flinders Ranges as an aspirational destination for everyone who loves visually stunning experiences.”
The Cradock Hotel is also a finalist, nominated for a Grey Nomad Award for Best Pub Stay. “With nominations in two categories, the tiny tourist town of Cradock is really making a name for itself as a ‘must visit’ destination The Flinders Ranges!”
Finalist in the Best Grey Nomad Trail category, The Flinders Ranges Self-Drive Loop, was developed by Council in 2022 and has proved to be an extremely popular tourist attraction, offering a scenic tour of the area between Quorn and Hawker. “Interpretive signage installed at the many points of interest along the way provides an insight into the history of the area, featuring historic photographs of each location. The self-drive loop offers a fascinating and visually stunning tour of this part of the Flinders Ranges and is enjoyed by hundreds of visitors each year.”
The Australian Street Art Awards is the largest recognition program for excellence and innovation in art tourism. Winners of the Australian Street Art Awards will be announced at the Australian Art of Attraction Summit in early March 2024.
