Shining a new light on a Beaudesert treasure

Published on 03 December 2025

Scenic Rim Regional Council has unveiled new lighting and a story marker to honour The Pathway of the Pioneers, a bicentennial mural created in 1988 by the late Florence Brook and the Beaudesert Potters Group.

Tourism and Regional Events Portfolio Councillor Jennifer Sanders and Community, Arts and Culture Portfolio Councillor Kerri Cryer attended the recent unveiling at The Centre Beaudesert, where the artwork now takes pride of place on the building’s Short Street wall.

Cr Sanders said the enhancements have given new life to a much-loved local artwork.

“We’ve installed new lighting and a story marker so locals and visitors can enjoy this stunning mural and the story behind it both by day and night,” Cr Sanders said.

“The mural was a gift to the citizens of Beaudesert Shire, representing the industries and localities of the district from past to present.

"It took about 1,000 hours and half a tonne of Raku clay to complete, and was such an achievement that The Australian Women’s Weekly awarded the potters a medal for their work.”

Cr Cryer said the story marker is part of Council’s wider program celebrating the region’s identity through public art and storytelling.

“The Story Marker Project combines signage, public art and creative interpretation to enhance community identity and connection,” she said.

“It aligns with Council’s Vibrant Towns and Villages Strategy, and contributes to a long-term cultural and tourism initiative that strengthens town identities, encourages visitor engagement and highlights our shared heritage.”

The Beaudesert Potters are also celebrating a major milestone this year; their 50th anniversary.

To mark the occasion, a new tiled mural will be installed at the entrance to their den at the Beaudesert Community Arts and Information Centre.

President Ruth Armstrong said the group is stronger than ever.

“From a handful of members meeting in homes to now more than 40 members and three kilns, we’ve come a long way,” she said.

Find out more about the Beaudesert Potters at the Beaudesert Community Arts and Information Centre, and learn about Council’s Story Marker Project at visitscenicrim.com.au/scenic-rim-story-stories.

Attached images:
Cr Kerri Cryer with Beaudesert potters (from left) Denise Summers, Sue Atherton, Robbie Drew, Pamella Fox, Hilary Rains and Jenny Harris with Cr Jennifer Sanders.
The storyboard depicting the mural's creation.