Community
12 December, 2025
Lions prepare for a creative Christmas
LIONS in Port Fairy and artists from around southwest Victoria are gearing up for a major art show during the festive season.
Port Fairy Belfast Lions Art Show director Henry Toller-Bond said that 2025 marked the 40th anniversary of the art show.
“The Lions Art Show started in 1985 and this year over 160 paintings will be on display in the senior citizens clubrooms in Barclay St Port Fairy between Sunday, December 28 and Friday, January 9”, he said.
In addition to the paintings from 49 artists, there will be a display of local textile work and student artwork from both local schools.
Henry said this year’s show had special significance.
“Longtime art show director Jim Kent passed away earlier this year. In recognition of his enormous involvement with the show, the Jim Kent Encouragement Award will be presented to an emerging or unsung artist.
“Also, the Lions Art Show will be officially opened on December 27 by Jim’s daughter, Julie Emonson.
“It takes a big team effort to change the senior citizens clubrooms into an art gallery with display boards and soft lighting, but with the expertise and skills available in the 40 members of the Port Fairy Lions club, this task was completed within two days.”
Artwork will be judged by well-known artist Rachael Robb, who has recently exhibited in both the Warrnambool and Geelong galleries.
All work on display is for sale and entry to the show, which is open from 10am–4pm is just $5 per person.
