The Matthew Talbot Hostel Conference in Woolloomooloo teamed up with Vinnies Services in September to create a vibrant, warm welcome for the Hostel’s community in the form of a beautiful mural. Since the MTH Conference’s formation in 2022, its members have been dedicated to improving the experience of people accessing crisis accommodation in Woolloomooloo, as well as their journey beyond. 

Based on valuable feedback provided by Hostel residents over the past few years, the Conference has raised funds to beautify the common areas of the Hostel. Under the patronage of Beverly Kerr DSG, NSW Vice-President, Special Works, they embarked on an inspiring project to transform the Hostel’s TV Lounge with a colourful mural - a concept which Beverly proposed to enhance the feeling of hospitality. 

This idea was inspired by the community mural created at the Hostel’s neighbouring Disability & Inclusion Service, the Ozanam Learning Centre (OLC) in 2021, which showcased the power of collaboration and community spirit, and has profoundly transformed the ambiance of the centre. 

Thus, the MTH Conference enlisted the OLC team to bring this vision to life. An experienced community muralist, Karla Hayes, was engaged to coordinate the project. The team consulted extensively with community for several months to gather input on the mural's theme and feel. Guided by this input, Karla then facilitated a multimedia co-design workshop with community members. It was inspiring, inclusive work at its finest. 

As excitement grew around the installation, the voice of community was overwhelmingly clear: there was a strong desire to connect with images of nature, both bush and sea, so that the mural might provide an oasis. A strong sense that the mural would reflect the theme of mateship also emerged, which, as one resident said, “is what the Talbot is all about.” 

The final design captured these themes beautifully, expressing them through the story of a dawn to dusk transition. With the community’s blessing to forge ahead, Karla and a team of people we assist then came together and painted for five consecutive days, creating both community spirit and a visual sensation. 

Each stroke of the brush also created a tangible sense of pride and connection between the Hostel and its community members, and the painters celebrated this special experience. “It’s wonderful to have an opportunity to give something back,” said one young man. “I feel I’m a part of something,” said another young man. 

The mural has been positively received, having the desired effect of uplifting the atmosphere of the Hostel, “as if reaching out with open arms to welcome everybody who walks through the front door,” said MTH Conference member, Christopher Stevens. A mural project like this has the potential for a lasting impact on culture, Chris explained. As the mural is enjoyed, it is hoped that it will serve as a reminder of warmth and compassion, fostering a more connected world.