Peter and Jill Heath recently donated the artwork, which is considered an iconic representation of Australian beach culture and one of Dupain’s best works, to the gallery.
The photo, At Newport (1952), is considered one of his most iconic works alongside his famous image, The Sunbaker and Bondi.
The central subject of the photograph, Peter Heath, was unaware the image was taken until he received it in a book of photographs for his 50th birthday.
He recognised the bathers as being similar to a pair he used to have before realising that the photograph was of him at age 14.
Mr Heath was gifted the photograph by the artist before his death in 1992.
He and his wife have now gifted the iconic photograph to the Benalla Art Gallery, where it has become part of the gallery’s permanent collection.
Benalla Mayor Scott Upston said he, and the gallery, were grateful for the gift.
“Max Dupain was an important Australian photographer," Cr Upston said.
"To have his work represented in the permanent collection of the Benalla Art Gallery is very special.
“We are most grateful to Peter and Jill Heath for the donation of this significant work."
Benalla Art Gallery is open 6 days a week (Wednesday to Monday) from 10am to 5pm.
For more information, visit www.benallaartgallery.com.au.