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Pauline Messenger OAM and Philip Messenger OAM

MESSENGER FAMILY NAMED FUND

The Messenger Family Named Fund honours the memory of Philip and Pauline Messenger.

Philip and Pauline initially became involved with the Benalla Art Gallery when it was housed in the temporary premises in the old Municipal Library Building. Their support and dedication continued for many decades, which is recognised by them both being Life Members of the Gallery.

In 1972, following the very generous Ledger family donation, Philip, Charlie Chiswell, (Benalla Mayor), Laurie Ledger and Tom Trewin MLA were the successful deputation to the then Premier, Sir Henry Bolte, that secured funding for an Art Gallery for Benalla and the North East region.

Philip also worked closely with Benalla City Engineer, Keith Borley, on the Gallery design. Laurie Ledger described Philip as his “chief backstop and consultant”. Philip and Denis Johnston became Trustees of the Benalla Art Gallery Acquisition Trust Fund established in 1986. Pauline was asked by the Commissioners to join the Benalla Art Gallery Advisory Committee and was duly elected Chairman in February 1995.

Philip and Pauline, along with their children, Christine, Andrew and Mark were regular visitors to the Benalla Art Gallery and attended many wonderful Gallery functions.

In the Gallery’s 50th year, it was a privilege and a great comfort for the family to host Pauline’s Wake at the Gallery, a special space that has been enjoyed so much by their family over the years.