17/04/2026
Amazing article for a beautiful piece 🔥
RSL MURAL PAYS TRIBUTE TO ANZAC LEGACY
A new mural celebrating the ANZAC spirit has been completed inside the Gordonvale RSL Hall, offering a striking tribute to Australia’s wartime service and sacrifice.
Created by local artist Carl Smith, the large artwork depicts Light Horsemen alongside World War I Diggers walking across a field of poppies, symbolising remembrance and the enduring legacy of those who served. The mural was commissioned by the Gordonvale RSL Sub Branch to honour veterans and strengthen the connection between the community and Australia’s military history.
Members of the RSL were invited to share ideas for the artwork, which helped shape the final concept. Carl developed the design using this feedback before completing the mural over approximately 50 to 60 hours across a two-week period.
The project was funded through the Australian Government’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs under the ‘Saluting Their Service Commemorative’ Grants Program. The program supports initiatives that commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australian service personnel, promote understanding of their experiences, and preserve the nation’s wartime heritage.
Planning for the artwork began in November 2025, when a canvas concept piece was first presented to the RSL committee before the final mural was painted inside the hall.
Smith said he felt honoured to contribute a piece that recognises the service of Australian Defence personnel and adds to the community’s commemorative spaces. The Gordonvale project follows other local work by the artist, including a mural on the Canegrowers building commissioned to mark its 100th anniversary this year.
Residents interested in viewing more of Smith’s work can visit his page, C. Smith Designs & Murals, on Facebook.
