So finally, the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery (SRAG) is opening after 74 days of closure. On Tuesday, the 9 June at 10 am we will open the doors. We have just finished the first return to the gallery induction workshop for our wonderful volunteers. Many of our volunteers are retired so coming back to be a volunteer in a public space was a big decision. 

All the volunteers we contacted have made the decision that they will come back to SRAG except two and they have managed to secure paid employment which is great. Dan McArthur, the gallery administrator, had put together a return to work policy. We had worked with the SDRC, the Stanthorpe Library and Australia Museum and Galleries to ensure that the volunteers and the public will feel safe and secure when we open the doors.  The induction process went very well. The emphasis was on cleanliness, hygiene, and social distancing. 

What was wonderful was the group coming together. Some of our volunteers do live on their own and as we love having them here, they too really enjoy the social interaction. 

At closure SRAG was still amid planning for the $50,000 Stanthorpe Art Prize. The gallery decided to reschedule the Art Prize. We will now be holding the final judging and exhibition in February to April 2021.

We are allowed 20 visitors in the gallery at present and if you would like to see LAF Out Loud: Local Art Fest we are open Tuesday to Friday 10am -4pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am-1pm. For more details ph. 074681 1874.

People from left to right are Dan McArthur, Carol Williams, Esme Hobba, Neil Magnussen, Cosette Bryan, Shirlee Russell.