Visitors flock to art gallery after renovation

More than 10,000 visitors have flocked through the doors to view nine different exhibitions since the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery reopened in April 2022 after a major renovation.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the gallery team had also provided tours for more than 300 school students and 18 community groups and delivered 30 public programs in the past 10 months.

“The Fraser Coast has a colourful and vibrant cultural life, and Council is keen to ensure our community has opportunities to appreciate its arts, heritage and cultural diversity,” he said.

“The year ahead for the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery is looking exciting. The 2023 program includes some truly extraordinary exhibitions: in a space designed to inspire, challenge, and engage.

“Our gallery team is committed to sharing art within our community.  Through art we can better understand the world around us and how we are all connected.

“I hope residents and visitors enjoy spending time in the gallery and find time to engage, learn and appreciate the diverse displays and programs featured this year.”

The 2023 program includes a diverse offering of exhibitions, public programs and operational initiatives, Gallery Director Ashleigh Whatling said.

“This year exhibits by some of Australia’s leading contemporary artists will cover topics that directly affect the Fraser Coast, such as the housing crisis, wildlife care and management and a Queensland staple – Rugby League,” she said.

“We remain committed to telling stories of this region and sharing perspectives from our diverse community.

“We acknowledge that we are on Butchulla land and will continue to learn, share and celebrate Butchulla values and culture in all of our offerings.”

While the gallery was being renovated, Council took the opportunity to develop a new Hervey Bay Regional Gallery Strategic Plan, Cr Seymour said.

“The new gallery is at the centre of Fraser Coast storytelling, in all its forms including contemporary art and the interpretation of culture, history and place, while supporting our region’s vibrant and diverse communities.”

For more information on the 2023 program go to www.hbrg.com.au