Carnarvon Street Makeover

Carnarvon’s Youth Precinct has a whole new look, thanks to the imagination, energy and hard work of local young people. Over several months, this group of passionate changemakers turned blank concrete into a colourful, welcoming space that celebrates community and makes the streets safer for everyone.

From ideas to action

The journey began with an info night at the Community Arts Hub, where young people gathered over snacks and conversation to hear how they could help reimagine the precinct. Excitement was in the air as they explored what safer, healthier and more vibrant streets could look like.

Workshops soon followed, giving participants the chance to dream big and design the transformation themselves. They sketched out plans for public art, safer crossings and inviting places to gather. They even helped shape the cheeky fruit characters and road safety messages that would later feature in the precinct’s giant footpath mural.

Building something special

When it came time to bring those ideas to life, the community showed up in force. Across four action-packed days, the Youth Precinct was buzzing with paint, laughter and teamwork.
Together, the young people:

• Built and painted three new public seats
• Installed two bike racks to make riding to the pump track easier and safer
• Planted and decorated vibrant planter boxes that brightened the space and signalled to drivers they were entering a youth-friendly zone

And then came the art! With guidance from talented local artists, the group turned grey pavement into something extraordinary.

A massive 170-metre-long mural by Tayla Beynon (Meraki Boho), filled with fruit characters sharing road safety tips and bright wayfinding paths for those walking, scooting or riding.

A half-court basketball mural by Sally Ridge (Sally Ridge Art), featuring a mother and baby turtle swimming across the court. The playful design symbolises young people leading the way into the future.

A celebration to remember

The big reveal wasn’t just about showing off the makeover. It was a full-blown street party. Locals flocked to the Youth Precinct for an afternoon of pump track races, best-decorated helmet competitions, giveaways, games and food. The energy was electric as the community came together to celebrate what the young people had achieved.

Some participants even stuck with the project from start to finish, attending every workshop and build day. Their dedication was recognised with certificates and the coveted RAC Ignite t-shirt, a badge of honour for their leadership and creativity.

More than just a makeover

What makes the Carnarvon Street Makeover so special is not just the new seating, murals or greenery. It is the way young people took the lead, planning, designing, building and celebrating every step of the way. They gained confidence, built leadership skills and left behind something lasting for their community.

None of this would have been possible without the support of so many people. RAC Ignite’s Alyce Brewis and Cass Stella made the journey from Perth to work alongside young people throughout the project. Together with the Shire of Carnarvon, local artists and dedicated volunteers, they helped turn bold ideas into a vibrant, welcoming precinct.

There were plenty of good news stories too. Local Mitre 10 not only supplied the project with materials but also donated generous prizes for the young volunteers. The team at the Shire of Carnarvon went above and beyond, working tirelessly to deliver the project while also running a jam-packed school holiday program.