Warrnambool's WRAD has unveiled Killarney artist Ricky Schembri's mural

The mural was unveiled on Sunday and depicts a number of key elements of the journey of recovery.

WRAD director Geoff Soma said the alcohol and drug centre had been planning a series of five murals for a number of years and was thrilled to see Schembri's final work.

"From the outset we worked together for the theme and I couldn't be more pleased with the finished result," he said. "It's more than a painting, it's how people can see recovery."

The acrylic mural was completed in 180 hours over three months and features a lighthouse symbolising safety and security, a dog for loyalty, the path offers direction, the eagle bestows freedom and courage to look ahead, and the sunset is symbolic of the ending of the day and a new beginning from tomorrow.

"I was really enthusiastic from the beginning and it was great to be working on the flat, smooth wall," Schembri said. "I learnt a lot from doing this, I've done three murals and with this one I learnt that in the afternoon the wall was too hot so I'd work in the mornings.

"They told me what they wanted and to include and I designed sketches based on local images and they really liked it.

"Everyone has some sort of destination they want to work towards."

WRAD operations director Mark Powell said he hoped the whole community could derive some meaning and purpose from the mural.

"Recovery cannot be achieved in isolation," he said. "Many people with serious substance problems have become isolated but need to feel the acceptance, care and love of other people."

Warrnambool artist Fiona Clarke will complete the second mural on the side of the centre's wall.

The project was supported by COATES Hire with supply of a scissor lift and Dean Flett from Dulux Trade Warrnambool.

Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.