A neglected Belgrave laneway is being transformed with creativity, colour and commitment.
The Belgrave Tecoma Township Group received a 2026 Annual Grant from Yarra Ranges Council for the Youth Way Project, an art and community improvement project supporting young people in the region.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins said the commitment and pride of the Belgrave Tecoma Township Group to their community was an example of what makes Yarra Ranges such a special place to live.
“Community-driven projects like these are so important. Not only will the Youth Way Project bring colour and character to Belgrave, but it will also transform this busy laneway into a space that feels safer and more welcoming,” Cr Higgins said.
Council’s community engagement on the Belgrave Township Design Framework in June-July 2025, identified strong community support for public art and concerns about graffiti and the condition of public spaces.
Lyster Ward Councillor, Peter Mcilwain, commended the community for the way it had come together on this project.
“Recognising an opportunity to achieve shared community goals, Council and the Belgrave & Tecoma Township Group came together to pool resources and expand the project, extending the mural across the full laneway and applying a protective anti-graffiti coating,” said Cr Mcilwain.
“Five young artists have spent five months working with Belgrave artist Skubz Mope to learn new skills to design the mural. The project reflects the ongoing support for creativity in Belgrave,” said Cr Mcilwain.
John Robinson, Secretary of the Belgrave & Tecoma Township Group said he’d been impressed by the talent and dedication of the young people involved.
“It is important to recognise that the young people involved have put literally hundreds of hours of effort into this project, from its inception in April, through the development of themes and into design. This is a complex process, and they have stuck with it and are now delivering a creative and colourful final product,” said Mr Robinson.
Telstra has also supported the project, allowing the artwork to extend along the full length of the side of their building.
The laneway will be blocked off for some periods in early October to allow for a safe workspace, with alternative access options available from Burwood Highway to Alexanders car park.
