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Friends of Benalla Art Gallery Foundation
Photo supplied by Georgina Burston

FRIENDS OF THE BENALLA ART GALLERY

In1968 an organising committee was established, known as the Art Gallery Society. The Society’s role was to provide support for the new Gallery through local participation.

In 1993, the Society’s name changed to The Friends of The Benalla Art Gallery and the group’s purpose was to promote, advocate for and provide financial support to the Benalla Art Gallery. The group of local volunteers continued to serve the Gallery with a mission to be the community voice; to be engaged in; to provide advocacy and to support the Benalla Art Gallery.

Over the years, the Friends worked passionately in the community to actively participate in the life of the Gallery, coordinate events, develop and deliver activities, establish and maintain relationships, support fundraising and volunteering needs and broadly champion the Gallery.

Since inception, the Friends raised thousands of dollars and contributed to the acquisition of numerous works and countless Gallery facilities and equipment upgrades.

In 2022, the Benalla Art Gallery Foundation was established. After two years, it became apparent that the Friends of Benalla Art Gallery and the Benalla Art Gallery Foundation had a shared purpose. After much consultation, it was determined that the ‘Friends’ would formally be wound-up with its committee members committed to supporting the Foundation and cohesive path ahead.

At a Special Meeting held on 24 September 2024, members voted to transfer the organisation’s remaining funds to the Benalla Art Gallery Foundation in order to continue supporting the Gallery’s long-term sustainability. Through this transfer, the Friends of Benalla Art Gallery Named Fund was established.