The rich history of Queanbeyan will soon be on display for residents and visitors in Blacksmiths Lane.
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The Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council (QPRC) is planning to display the historical connection of blacksmiths and wheelwrights, that worked in the area, in Blacksmiths Lane.
The council has asked the community if they or someone they know have a historical connection to the blacksmiths and wheelwrights that worked in the area.
These untold stories would then be told by artists through murals in Blacksmiths Lane.
According to the historical records, blacksmiths and wheelwrights used to work in Monaro Street dating back as far as 1877.
Tracey Lamont, Program Coordinator - Place Management, said," We are looking for stories from locals who might be able to share previously untold history about blacksmiths and wheelwrights who worked in the area.
"We know from historical newspaper records that there were blacksmiths and wheelwrights working nearby on Monaro Street, and we'd love to hear from anybody who has a family connection.
"If we can find some great stories, we'd look to incorporate those into the renewal of Blacksmiths Lane.
"The concept for No Name Lane includes a public art gallery, so for that space, we are looking for artists to contribute to this outdoor gallery."
Meanwhile, the council is also looking to the improve safety, amenity and functionality of No Name Lane and is looking for artists that are keen to contribute to the outdoor art gallery proposed for No Name Lane.
The two pedestrian laneways intersect with Monaro Street and act as a link between carparks, businesses, community and arts venues.
Mayor Tim Overall feels that it is an exciting opportunity to help shape the way the CBD looks and feels.
"We are looking for community stories that would enrich the history on display in Blacksmiths Lane and create a network of creatives to contribute to the art gallery proposed for No Name Lane," he said.
The work on the two lanes is being carried out after QPRC secured $505,701 as part of the NSW Government's Your High Street grant program in May 2021.
The planned rejuvenation of these lanes aims to increase pedestrian traffic in Queanbeyan, support local businesses and improve community safety and comfort.
Initial concepts for the two lanes are open for community comment on the council's Your Voice page. The proposed work in these laneways includes upgraded paving, dedicated public art, increased lighting, greenery and seating.
One can get involved by going to the Monaro Lanes Your Voice page, looking at the plans and completing the survey.
Participants of the survey can also tick the 'contact me' box to contribute more stories and knowledge with the council's Placemaking team.
