Plunket supported, artfully

Celebrating another successful RSM Law Plunket Art Show are (back, from left) community Karitane staff June Boulden, Timaru group member Kendall Smith, Plunket educator and breastfeeding works coordinator Renee Haumu, Plunket administrator Merrilyn Williams and art show committee member Diana Young, (middle, from left) art show committee member and sponsor Ineke Winkelman, art show committee member Cath Booth, Plunket community services co-ordinator Louise Haley, RSM Law partner and art show committee member Julia Traylor, art show committee chairwoman Josie Laming, Dave Fennessy from sponsor Forsyth Barr and (front) playgroup co-ordinator Michelle Phillips with sons Logan, 4, and Liam, 2. PHOTO: CLAIRE ALLISON

South Canterbury art lovers have once again given the local branch of Plunket a funding boost.

The annual RSM Law Plunket Art Show this year raised $30,000 for Plunket and a special lunch provided an opportunity to thank all those involved in the fundraising effort, such as the art show committee and the various sponsors whose contributions meant every dollar raised was able to be donated.

Art show committee chairwoman Josie Laming said sponsorship — from RSM Law, Forsyth Barr, Lena Transport, Copyfast, Petronellas and the Aigantighe Art Gallery — covered the costs involved in putting on the show.

‘‘Sponsors could donate directly to Plunket, but doing this means the community gets to see some beautiful artwork in an exhibition that brings together work from artists all over New Zealand in a wide range of mediums,’’ Mrs Laming said.

The committee was conscious there were many worthy causes and that economic times were tight, so members were thrilled to have been able to once again donate a substantial amount to Plunket, she said.

South Canterbury Plunket community services coordinator Louise Haley said it was fantastic to bring together art show committee members and sponsors in the Plunket Hub to thank everyone for their efforts, showing them what Plunket did in the community.

‘‘The show’s historical support has help shape our area and enables us to run many groups and services to connect and support our families in South Canterbury,’’ Mrs Haley said.

‘‘We are so grateful to have people like these in our community.’’