Mural underway
Research on the mural started in August 1987.
Preliminary drawings were finalised by April 1988.
Painting of the mural then took seven months.
Eric Juckert worked seven days a week, often starting at 2.30 am, and working through until late in the afternoon
The amount of fine work in the mural is incredible.
Literally hundreds of photos ensured that every aspect of the mural is accurate.
Period dress has been meticulously copied from old family photo albums.
The outline for the mural was entirely painted with a fine brush and oils, before then being painted in.
The result is a masterpiece, of which the island can be proud, depicting our origins and our heritage.
The mural was hung in the Phillip Island Shire offices (now the Cowes Cultural Centre) on December 1, 1988
It was officially unveiled two days later by His Excellency Sir Ninian Stephen, Governor General of Australia.