MAITLAND REGION SOCIETY OF ARTISTS CELEBRATES ANOTHER AMAZING ANNUAL EXHIBITION

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—I recently attended the Maitland Region Society of Artists' annual exhibition at St James Anglican Church Hall Morpeth, an incredible offering of creative works from local artists. This years' opening was a vibrant and lively occasion, with an excellent and wide variety of paintings and sculptures, ensuring the exhibition was a huge success as usual. This years' Best in Show was awarded to Gaye Shield for 'Shadows'; with prizes awarded in various sections thereafter. The June Campbell Encouragement Award went to Wenny Chia for her work on 'Birches and a Broken Branch'. Marie Forbes was awarded the Maitland Arts Council Award for her 'Patchwork of Colour'; Sponsor's Award winner was Joanne Conder with 'Kookaburra Threesome', and the People's Choice Award went to Joanne Conder for 'Kookaburra Threesome'. Congratulations to all winning artists, and those who submitted entries that created an impressive display. I was honoured to be invited to such an inspirational and creative evening and wish to congratulate you all on the huge success of another year for the Maitland Region Society of Artists.