Arts alliance holds annual meeting
The Baw Baw Arts Alliance (BBaa) had its annual general meeting on Tuesday August 9.
New committee members were elected, and attendees heard from BBaa president Anita George - who was re-elected as president during the proceedings.
Janine Richardson was named vice president, Jeff Thege as secretary and Prue Barridge was re-elected as treasurer. The general committee is comprised of Carol Monson, Ingrid Thomas, Marlene Ogden, Sue Murphy and Cheryl Cook.
The election was run by Melissa Forlano, the Baw Baw Shire development officer.
Ms George read a president’s report early in the evening, which detailed the organisation’s achievements in the last year including the Ficifolia Festival, the MadHatters Teaparty and the Easter Art Sale. She also thanked all involved with BBaa, both the committee members and the organisations that they associate with.
Ms George also reflected on the many things that were planned for 2021 but could not go ahead - an experience shared by many community groups.
However, the coming year brings new opportunities for the group, who already have a number of things planned.
Rowenna Dunn, manager of the West Gippsland Arts Centre (WGAC) was the evening’s guest speaker.
She introduced herself and told the audience a bit about her life while detailing the many plans she and her team have for the WGAC.
Ms Dunn disclosed information about plans to initiate community consultation, engage young people and change marketing and more.
Finally, Ms George congratulated artist Cheryl Cook on completing a textiles fellowship and presented Jessie McLennan with a gift for her work on the mosiac piece Pat the dog, which was completed with a group of local artists.
Members of the Warragul Camera Club and Baw Baw Shire mayor Michael Leaney also attended the meeting - as did other members of the community.
After the formalities concluded, attendees enjoyed supper and conversation.
The next BBaa annual general meeting is scheduled on Tuesday August 8 2023.