Coobowie Water Tank Mural: A Burst of Coastal Life

Nestled along Gumbowie Road, the Coobowie Water Tank may stand just four meters tall, but its mural is a vibrant explosion of color, movement, and local character. Created over 16 days by the artist duo Creature Creature (Chanel Tang and Ambrose Rehorek) with Jason Parker, the artwork transforms the tank into a dynamic tribute to Coobowie’s birdlife and coastal flora.

Using a mix of hand-painting and spray techniques, the mural wraps the tank in a flowing design that mirrors the life of the Coobowie estuary and reserve. Birds take flight across the canvas—Great Egrets, Black Swans, Royal Spoonbills, Pelicans, Cape Barren Geese, and Pied Oystercatchers—captured in mid-motion or serene stillness. Woven among them are bold botanical details: Pigface, Mallee Bush Pea, Coastal White-Mallee, Osbornes Eyebright, and Clover Glycine, each rendered with striking lines and vivid hues.

The mural doesn’t just showcase what makes Coobowie unique—it celebrates the deep connection between place and nature, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the wildlife that thrives here. This project was made possible through the AusTrade Bushfire Recovery Grant, with support from the Coobowie Progress Association, Yorke Peninsula Council, Yorke Peninsula Tourism, SA Water, and Wellbeing SA. A small tank with a big story!