Disability Art Show committee chairman Craig Lucas with the main organiser of this year’s exhibition, Joanne Sellick 

December 9, 2012

The South Burnett Disability Art Show began back in 2007 … and it just keeps on growing.

In fact, according to Disability Service Local Area Co-ordinator Julie Smart, it’s now the “social event” of the year.

Kingaroy Art Gallery was filled with artists, their friends, family members and carers, on Saturday morning for the opening of the 2012 show.

Craig Lucas,  chairman of the organising committee, said this year’s exhibition was “outstanding” and “absolutely brilliant”.

The works come from right across the South Burnett.

South Burnett Mayor Wayne Kratzmann, who officially opened the exhibition, commended all the volunteers and organisers who had made it possible.

“To come here today to see this is absolutely amazing,” he said.

Cr Kratzmann praised Rosemary Braithwaite, from Graham House in Murgon, for having the vision to kickstart the art show five years ago.

He also praised the artists for what they have achieved.

“You are our inspiration. You are our heroes in life,” he said.

Doug Henderson, from SB Care, made a special presentation to Rosemary of a “thank you” gift.

The art show was originally funded by a government grant but over the years more and more support has come from the community to make it a reality.

“It is now entirely a self-supporting event from the artists, their carers and support organisations,” Rosemary said.

The exhibition will remain on show at the Kingaroy Art Gallery until January 7.

Bradley Brinin, from Caboolture, with some of his artworks

CTC support worker Lynne Hare with Leana Hardy, from Wilkesdale
Doug Henderson, from SB Care, thanked Rosemary Braithwaite, the founder of the exhibition, for her hard work over the years