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Australia’s best toilet block? Benalla Street Art Festival creates impressive decorated dunny
When Amanda Valdes got the call to take part in the Benalla Street Art Festival she was excited — then she heard she was painting a toilet block.
However, she did her research, planned a mural and what she has left behind might just be Australia’s best toilet block.
There are awards for such a thing. Perhaps someone will nominate it?
While many enjoyed the building’s previous murals, comments overheard by visitors clicking cameras, those on official tours and locals alike are all positive.
The view down the laneway from Bridge St East alone is already appearing on social media feeds and local pages, with a large rose framed at its end.
Some might call it the perfect mural for the Rose City. Valdes, however, is a lot more humble.
“It’s been amazing,” Valdes said.
“It’s rare that you have the opportunity to paint all four sides of a building.
“When the opportunity presented itself, I was very excited and jumped on board.”
Valdes said she knew what colour pallet she wanted to use before arriving.
“The idea of the florals came around quite organically,” she said.
“I knew I wanted to paint the roses as we’re in the Rose City.
“The exact layout and mapping comes together as I work.”
Valdes said this is her first toilet block.
“It’s also my favourite wall so far,” she said.
“Benalla is such a great community. Everyone’s been so welcoming, positive and supportive.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time here, and I think that shows up in the wall.”
Valdes said if she got the call to return to a future Benalla Street Art Festival, she would jump straight on a plane.
“I’ve already planned to come back just to visit,” she said.
“I love Benalla. I love the people. I love the crew at the Northo. They are absolutely amazing.
“Everyone’s been awesome. So I think the plan is to come back in maybe a month or two.”