Massive mural a sign of support for Busselton Olympian

Busselton has unveiled a hometown tribute to its own Olympic hopeful Nina Kennedy, with a large scale mural of the champion pole vaulter appearing on the side of the Orana Cinemas building on Albert Street.

The mural is one of 10 across the country, sponsored by Qantas.

Kennedy said having her image displayed in such a large and prominent position was “really strange”.

“I never imagined myself on a mural, but when I look past that, I feel proud that I can represent women in sports on this scale,” she said.

“Busselton played a huge part in shaping me into the person I am and I feel grateful that the South West has embraced me to the extent of a mural; how special is that!”

Kennedy said preparations for the women’s pole vault competition, which will kick off next week, were going well.

“I’m healthy, happy, and I’ve left no stone unturned. I’m honestly so excited to compete and to see what I’m capable of. I’m also extremely proud to be representing Australia.”

Artist Michael Betts was appointed by project partners Qantas and Blank Walls to complete the colourful tribute.

“I was very moved by the amount of people who came up to me in Busselton with encouragement for the painting process and support for Nina Kennedy,” he told the Mail this week.

A Qantas spokesperson said feedback for the murals had been positive, generating excitement and local pride for Australian athletes.