Voting opens for Launceston's Northern Gateway project

Published on 15 September 2025

The City of Launceston is inviting the community to help choose a striking new public artwork for the city’s northern entrance, with voting now open for the two shortlisted designs.

The Northern Gateway project will deliver an iconic statement piece installed on the Midland Highway’s Southern Outlet near the Pipeworks Road overpass, welcoming visitors and locals alike to Launceston and the wider Northern Tasmanian region.

The project, funded through the Tasmanian Government’s Northern Gateway Improvements program, will create a striking and memorable entry point that celebrates Launceston’s identity as the gateway to the north.

The City of Launceston sought community input on the project earlier this year via the Council's online engagement platform Tomorrow Together, asking residents 'What does Launceston mean to you?'

Hundreds of responses were received, with key themes including Launceston’s built heritage, rivers and water, Palawa heritage, mountains and hills, journey through time, and animals and wildlife. These themes helped shape the artist brief.

The Council received 40 applications from artists across the country, with an expert panel comprising Council officers, a Cultural Advisory Committee member and an independent curator shortlisting three artists to develop paid concept designs.

Following this process, two final concepts have been selected for the public vote.

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said community involvement had been at the heart of the project from the beginning.

"Launnie has already had a huge hand in shaping what this project is all about, and now we’re asking you to choose which design feels the most us,” Mayor Garwood said.

"This is our chance to decide how people feel the moment they roll into Launceston and that first impression matters.

"The Northern Gateway is going to be one of the most eye-catching public artworks in the whole state, and it should shout loud and clear about who we are and where we’re headed as a community."

Voting is open from 12pm today (September 15) until 12pm, October 12, and all voters will go in the draw for one of two $100 gift cards.

The preferred concept selected by the community will be presented to Councillors for endorsement later this year, and installation of the final artwork is scheduled for late 2026.

Visit tomorrowtogetherlaunceston.com.au/launceston-northern-gateway to:

• Learn about the shortlisted artists and their concepts.

• Explore FAQs and background on the project.

• Submit your vote.