Great Western gallery undergoes a retail revamp

Great Western Gallery volunteer Bel Starr with Aurelia Metals/Peak Gold Mine HR
Manager Lochlan McKenzie who called in to have a look at the gallery’s re-vamped retail space on Monday.

The Great Western Gallery has recently undergone a retail revamp with the help of funding from Aurelia Metals and hard work by local gallery volunteers.

Volunteer Collen Flynn, who helped with the revamp, said some water damage and the age of the premises meant that some renovations were needed.

Colleen said moving everything out for the repair work also gave the gallery’s volunteers the opportunity to give the whole shop a retail revamp.

Mesh was installed on the walls along with new display units and shelves which has enabled the gallery to better show off its wares.

“The shop feels more open and has more space.

“It’s now very pram friendly,” Colleen said.

“The new window display shelving is more open and allows customers to see through into the shop.”

Aurelia Metals’ Laura Newton, Senior Environment and Community Advisor at Peak Gold Mines, said Aurelia was pleased to contribute $3,800 to the gallery to purchase new carpet.

“Aurelia recognises the Great Western Gallery as an important cultural asset for our community, providing a space to showcase local talents,” Laura said.

“By contributing to new carpet, Aurelia is helping to ensure the gallery remains safe, accessible, and welcoming for visitors of all ages.

“This aligns with a donation Aurelia gave in 2019 to replace the front door to the gallery,” Laura told The Cobar Weekly.

“The ongoing upgrades improve the overall experience and supports the long-term sustainability of the venue.

“Aurelia is committed to investing in community infrastructure and cultural initiatives that enrich the social wellbeing of our region” she said.

The gallery exhibits the works of 20 local artists and crafters that include knitters, crocheters, metal and woodworkers, quilters and card makers.

The gallery has seven regular volunteers who man the gallery five and a half days a week (depending upon their availability).