Art blooms at Billabong: a celebration of ability

“This group amazes and inspires me every day,” ConnectGV chief executive Jacinta Russell said.

She said the day served as an important reminder of promoting awareness, understanding and ensuring people with disability could live purposeful, fulfilled lives.

“It is everyone’s responsibility to take away barriers for people with disability,” she said.

The exhibition showcased a year’s worth of artwork created by individuals and groups across ConnectGV’s service areas.

Many pieces were completed independently, while others were guided by support workers and mentor teams — each creation reflecting personal expression, growth and joy.

Shepparton artist Tank, who attended the event, said he loved how art naturally opened doors for connection.

“I love how inclusive art can be. It’s some of the obstacles in life that can make you the most creative,” he said.

All works were produced at the Bowenhall St centre, ranging from Indigenous art and splatter painting to textiles and even musical elements.

For many artists, seeing their work displayed publicly was a milestone.

“I’m excited to take my artwork home and frame it,” Caitlyn Panettieri, who received the first People’s Choice Award, said.

Charmaine Horten took home the second People’s Choice Award and Karen Parr, who was a part of the skill development group, received the Artist Choice award from Tank.

“I’ve loved doing the group artwork,” Karen said.

“We all chose different colours and worked together. Today is a celebration of that and what we have done over the year.”