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House of Assembly - Fifty-Fifth Parliament, First Session (55-1)
2025-09-18 Daily Xml
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Parafield Gardens Free Wall

Mr FULBROOK (Playford) (15:27): Congratulations to Lainie Anderson. From one artist to a number of artists, I rise to discuss the opening of the Parafield Gardens Free Wall. This is a story about how a rookie error turned into an opportunity, how constructive community feedback can lead to innovation, and how collaboration across council, schools, artists and residents can make something of real community value.

Back in 2023, I made what I can only describe as a beginner's mistake. After months of work I managed to have a large wall within my electorate cleaned of graffiti. The surface was not attractive and I thought I had done the world a favour by restoring it to a blank state. Against my better judgment, the owner encouraged me to share this news publicly. I posted about it online only to realise soon after that I had effectively announced the arrival of a giant blank canvas.

It did not take long before community members responded online, rightfully pointing out the error of my ways. Among those was a local resident, Brett Herbert, and I remain very grateful for his words which were both thoughtful and constructive. Mr Herbert suggested that instead of simply removing graffiti, we should open up creative channels by considering the concept of a free wall. On reflection of his suggestion, I realised the taste of humble pie was not so bad and that setting up a free wall had a lot of merit.

For those unfamiliar, a free wall is a designated public space where street artists can legally create. It allows for the practise and development of skills, the testing of ideas, and the expression of culture without the risk of breaking the law. It gives artists a chance to create without needing to watch over their shoulders. Importantly, it respects both property rights and artistic expression. With that in mind, I approached our local mayor, Gillian Aldridge, to see if council would be open to the suggestion. Following considerable research, including the need to find the right venue—along with discussions with police, community members and design professionals—I was delighted that council were on board.

In time, agreement was reached that the Parafield Gardens Recreation Centre would be the best site available. In acknowledging the realisation of this project, I wish to thank councillors Sarah Ouk and Kylie Grenfell for their dedication in helping to bring this vision to life. I also note the important work of council's public art panel on which the mayor, councillor Grenfell and councillor Lauren Brug serve. Their guidance ensured this initiative was considered carefully and delivered responsibly.

The wall itself has been lined with removable panels. This means that, if an especially notable work is created, it can be removed and preserved for safekeeping. This adds a unique element to the project: a rotating gallery, where art can be refreshed, with the potential to store any masterpieces before they are painted over. Already, the project has attracted local interest. Local schools, including Thomas More College, have expressed their desire to be involved. That means the wall will not only be a site for artistic expression but also a useful education medium. The first works were created only last week. Street artists Jarrod Soden and Max Montgomery from Perplswet Designs were the first to christen the wall. Their contribution set a high standard and a strong tone for what may follow.

Of course, we cannot pre-empt every outcome. While the hope is that by offering a legitimate space, some artists who might otherwise tag private property or public infrastructure will instead find an outlet here. That is not said critically and, when no channel is provided, it will find its own. This initiative proves a better, more positive alternative. Councillor Grenfell captured the sentiment best when she said, 'This is hopefully the first wall of many within our community.' That optimism reflects the wider spirit of this project. It's about creating opportunities for expression, while also respecting the spaces that we share.

In closing, I wish to note something important. While we may have flown underneath the radar during the development of the free wall, I have recently spoken to Mr Herbert to remind him that it was his idea. I want him to know that this was his vision and that he has every right to take pride in seeing it realised. The Parafield Gardens Free Wall was a tribute not only to collaboration, but to the power of community voices. I commend everyone involved and I look forward to seeing this concept grow.

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