Clandestine, was initially installed at Stefano’s Gallery 25, Mildura in July, 2009 with the intention of taking the show into specific communities directly affected by the Black Saturday Bushfires. The installation comprises more than 200 salvaged, burnt objects blackened, charred and disfigured objects and is synonymous with any domestic family dwelling, ranging from the utilitarian to the deeply personal.

Despite, the pitfalls of art linked to therapy, Clandestine has a significant contribution to make in uniting and aiding the recovery of this fire-affected community. This is a highly sensitive and politicised issue. The iconography used in the exhibition is the personal artifacts of the Fettling/Allan families. This allows for a more universal response to an individual calamity, without undue liberties being taken

Whiteley’s Zoo is an intimate exhibition designed specially for children.

Brett Whiteley (1939 – 92) was one of the most recognised Australian artists of the twentieth century. During his early working life in London, Whiteley concurrently worked on two contrasting themes – the dark, sinister Christie series and a collection of drawings, prints, sculptures and paintings that featured animals from London’s Regent Park Zoo. Animals represented Whiteley’s earliest interest in a visual iconography within his work and his fascination with the energy, intelligence and lives of animals – a theme that continued throughout his working life. Featuring a menagerie of monkeys, giraffes, hippos and hyenas the series explores confinement as a formal device; portraying an emotional response to how animals feel and what they know.

Free entry to the exhibition on Australia Day, Tuesday 26 January.

Hilda Rix Nicholas: The man for the job will focus on the Australian images of Rix Nicholas’s career. The exhibition title comes from a statement made by Rix Nicholas’s herself in 1922 when discussing the new direction in her work: ‘It has not been done to any extent … and I feel I am the man for the job.’

Her images of both men and women in Australian pastoral scenes challenged the male-dominated cultural and artistic establishment and effectively isolated her from contemporary Australian women artists’ practice. Her aim however was to present these works to European audiences and in 1925–26 she was the first female Australian artist to have a solo exhibition in both Paris and London with the exhibition then touring to regional galleries throughout the United Kingdom.

Admission fees apply for this exhibition.

Hilda Rix Nicholas - In the Bush (1927)

‘Father Figures’ are a set of collector cards which emerged as a concept while researching Castlemaine’s gold mining history. As a result of the research I developed awareness of the importance of the beard in fashion and society at the time.

I recall my father having a beard in his later years, and in contemplating the father figure, I began to realize that a significant number of my male role models have beards.

The series is a study of men of influence (on me), with an emphasis on beards as a uniting theme. In looking at the entire collection the viewer might come closer to knowing who I am by these divergent influences.

Enjoy an informative and friendly tour of the historic township of Eaglehawk. Meet at 10am at the Eaglehawk Town Hall, Peg Leg Road Eaglehawk.

Join renowned garden designer, horticulturist and writer - Kevin Walsh - on an informative guided tour of the historic Bendigo Botanic Gardens. Location: meet at the Samuel Gadd Centre (former caretaker's residence). Time: 5-8pm.

Quill's restaurant will be opening for a special Valentine's Day Dinner.  Couples can enjoy a sumptuous two course dinner of a Seafood Platter and Dessert Platter for two, to share., only $110 per couple.  Alternatively guests can order from the regular menu.

Please contact Quill's Restaurant to reserve your table and avoid dissappointment.

Come and enjoy the pleasant surrounds of the Botanic Gardens and listen to the Greater Bendigo Brass Band present a varied musical program of popular music. Bring your own chair/rug/food. Time: 5.30-7.30pm.

A sumptuous three course dinner accompanied by aged museum wine, specifically chosen to compliment the set menu.  Let the Quill's chefs tantalise your tastebuds and delight your culinary senses, showcasing their expertise and talent. Beginning at 6:30pm including all meals and wine for $80 per person.  Please ensure you book early to avoid dissapointment.

Quality Thoroughbred Racing. Dinner packages are available at Silks contact Jenny Rawiller on 03 54484209.

Come and enjoy the pleasant surrounds of the Botanic Gardens and listen to the Marist Brothers Band present an interesting program of music. Bring your own chair/rug/food. Time: 5.30-7.30pm.