The artists converge on Portland every year to paint murals of common Australian products from the late 19th and early 20th century as part of the “Signs of Yesteryear” project which began in 2001.

The sunny conditions were ideal for a day out and many locals were in attendance to see the artistic talents of the many signwriters lining Portland’s main street.

Among the Wallnuts this year was painter Brian Tetstall, a talented artist who worked on the design for Queen Elizabeth’s $5 million Royal Coach that was used for the State Opening of Parliament procession in London earlier this year.

Also present was the founder of the “Signs of Yesteryear” project Ron Bidwell who enjoyed the day immensely, recalling his formative years as a signwriter himself.

“It’s great to see such a historic craft alive and well in Portland,” he said.

“The event attracts a lot of interest and we’ll keep this tradition going as long as possible.”

Also in attendance was Jackie and Jane Ruston, the wife and daughter of the late Bruce Ruston, a former Wallnut who painted the memorable Billy Tea sign at Portland Foodworks.

Mr Ruston passed away this year at the age of 86 and was very popular among his fellow painters.

Jackie and Jane enjoyed their time in Portland and were impressed with the quality of the many paintings around the town.

“It’s great to see small, historic towns like Portland come alive for weekends like this” Jackie said.

Overall the Walnutt’s produced more than a dozen new additions to the increasingly colourful canvas of Portland and look forward to returning next year.