The long-running partnership between the Packsaddle Committee and the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) was celebrated in style on Saturday night, as the committee presented a $50,000 cheque to the museum during its 40th Packsaddle dinner.
The handcrafted cheque, a fitting symbol of the committee’s creativity and community spirit, was presented to NERAM Director Rachael Parsons before a full house of artists, supporters, and art lovers.
Ms Parsons thanked the committee for its enduring support and generosity.
“For forty years, the Packsaddle Committee has been at the heart of NERAM’s story,” said Ms Parsons. “This $50,000 contribution is a testament to their unwavering dedication and the extraordinary commitment of our community to ensuring that art continues to thrive in the New England region.”
Since its inception in the early 1980s, the Packsaddle Committee has raised more than $750,000 for NERAM through its annual art exhibitions. These funds have supported acquisitions, conservation work, facility improvements, and educational programs.
“This gift will go directly towards NERAM’s Building Improvement Fund, helping us to enhance our spaces, care for our collections, and continue providing meaningful cultural experiences for visitors of all ages,” Ms Parsons said. “It’s a wonderful milestone to celebrate — not only 40 years of exhibitions, but 40 years of friendship and shared vision.”
The 40th Packsaddle Exhibition continues the committee’s long tradition of showcasing a diverse range of works by emerging and established Australian artists, with proceeds from all sales supporting NERAM’s operations and programs.
Featuring more than 400 works for sale, this year’s exhibition offers a vibrant cross-section of contemporary Australian art, reflecting the strength and diversity of regional creativity.
The exhibition runs at NERAM until November 9.
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