CAPALABA’S infamous “baby faces” mural is on the way out, with plans now confirmed to remove the decades-old artwork and repaint the noise wall with a plain coat of paint.
In a statement to the Redland Bayside News, a TMR spokesperson said the wall along Moreton Bay Rd – long a quirky and divisive local landmark – would undergo repairs by late 2025, weather and resources permitting.
“The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will undertake maintenance works of the noise wall located on Moreton Bay Rd, Capalaba, including the replacement of missing panels, by late 2025,” the spokesperson said.
“TMR will engage with stakeholders and the community on the future of the noise wall in the coming months.”
However, it seems there are no plans to preserve or restore the mural.
Instead, the wall will be painted in a single colour once repairs are complete.
While a future mural is not ruled out entirely, it would require funding from another source or additional investment.
Created around the year 2000, the mural was born from a community competition that invited families to submit photos of their children.
The selected images were then immortalised in oversized portraits on the wall – sparking decades of fascination, debate, and at times, ridicule.
As noted in a recent online editorial, the mural’s original intent deserves respect.
It was a heartfelt tribute to local families, a public display of pride and belonging.
But as Redlands evolves, so too must its public spaces.
“Murals, like cities, age. And this one hasn’t aged well,” the editorial noted.
With the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, some argue this is an opportunity to reimagine Redlands’ identity – not just for locals, but for the world.
Ideas floated include a vibrant celebration of Quandamooka culture, our unique environment, or a mural showcasing Olympic hopefuls and community pride.
Redland City Councillors have previously said their hands are tied, as the mural sits on state-controlled land.
Cr Jason Colley said former State MP Don Brown told him and other residents that the noise barrier wall was a matter for Council.
“I’m pleased this has now been properly investigated and the State Department has taken responsibility for their infrastructure,” he said.
But TMR’s plan to paint over it could spark renewed calls for public input and investment in a new vision.
For now, one thing is clear: the “baby faces” mural will soon be gone.
What comes next is a question for the community – and one that needs answering before the new paint dries.
