Blue Mountains City Council invites the community to celebrate the unveiling of two new public murals at the SAFE TO BE Laneway Art Party on Thursday, March 5 2026 at the Katoomba Civic Centre forecourt.
This free community celebration marks the installation of two significant artworks in College Lane – one celebrating women’s safety in public spaces and the other honouring LGBTQIA+ pride, safety and belonging.
Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said the murals are a visible and lasting statement about the kind of community the Blue Mountains strives to be.
“These murals send a clear message that everyone has the right to feel safe in public spaces,” Greenhill said.
“Public art has the power to spark conversations, challenge attitudes and reflect our shared values. SAFE TO BE is about standing together as a community and saying there is no place for harassment or hate in the Blue Mountains.”
Member for Blue Mountains Trish Doyle MP said: “We all want to feel safe, included and respected in our beautiful Mountains community.
“These public artworks were commissioned to send that very vivid and clear message of support to women and to the LGBTQIA residents and visitors. And, I have to add, how lucky are we to have these two talented artists living here, creating these stunning murals to add to the other wonderful street art on our village walls.”
Festivities begin at 4pm with a free crown crafting workshop, followed by the official launch at 5pm. The program includes guest speakers, artist talks, music and free food sourced from local Katoomba businesses. At 5.30pm, the community is invited to take part in an inclusive, high-energy Flashdance wellness workout.
The Women in Public mural has been delivered by respected local mural artist Mandy Schoene Salter, focusing on safe streets and communities for women and girls. Local artist Christine Dean has created the LGBTQIA+ Pride mural, bringing years of experience advocating for LGBTQIA+ communities through art.
March 5 2026: 4pm Crown Craft Workshop - 5pm Official Launch
Katoomba Civic Centre Forecourt, College Lane, Katoomba.
Troy has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.