Transformation well underway as dunnies become divine

Why the men’s section of Maryborough’s inner city public bathroom are set to become some of the most talked about toilets

Akos Juhasz with the urinals painting.

Fascinating images are transforming the men’s section of Maryborough’s inner city public toilets as artist Akos Juhasz mixes paints, wields paintbrushes and considers humorous suggestions about what Apollo should hold in his hand.

Urinals have been surmounted by the outstretched arms of Apollo, with Victorian elegance and innovation blending into quirky Steampunk styles and elements of Maryborough history.

Above the urinals with shocking pink deodorant “targets”, Mr Juhasz has replaced a ruined castle in the original sketch with a gaunt depiction of Baddow House before it was restored to its former grandeur.

Mr Juhasz has been engaged by the Divine Dunnies project team, working as a committee under the Maryborough City Progress Association Inc.

Transformation of the austere toilets on the eastern side of the City Hall is estimated to cost about $100,000 and create a new visitor drawcard for the Heritage City.

Committee vice-president Greig Bolderrow said outstanding and attractive toilet precincts were proven drawcards around the world.

“We plan to make our Maryborough’s dunnies into the most talked-about public toilets in Australia. Akos is unsure at this stage what Apollo will end up holding in his hand but he is open to suggestions.

“Ideas put forward so far include a toilet brush, a Fourex stubby, a toilet roll, a magnifying glass, a ruler and a geometry compass.”

The men’s section is closed to the public but will be in use again after a soft opening. The larger women’s area and parenting room would then be closed while Mr Juhasz continues his work.

Mr Bolderrow said it would be several months before the project, which would include piped music and fresh flowers, was finished.