Lifestyle & Entertainment
5 June, 2026
Beaufort ready for big art weekend
BEAUFORT will become a lively creative destination this King’s Birthday long weekend as visitors converge on the town for one of its biggest annual celebrations of art, creativity and community. The annual Bendigo Community Bank Pyrenees Art Exhibition opens at the Beaufort Town Hall tonight and continues across Saturday, Sunday and Monday, forming the centrepiece of a packed weekend that draws people from across the region.
Presented by the Pyrenees Arts Council in partnership with the Rotary Club of Beaufort, the exhibition has grown into one of the district’s most significant cultural events, showcasing work from both emerging and established artists.
Exhibition committee member Jocelyn Oddie said preparations had come together smoothly thanks to the efforts of a dedicated volunteer committee.
“We’ve got a committee and we all do our parts, so it’s gone well,” she said.
With entries continuing to arrive at the town hall this week, Ms Oddie said visitors were in for a treat.
“People come from all around the area,” she said.
“You might get people from Stawell or Ballarat putting their artwork in, people who are just starting out, and people who have been painting for years.
“Some of the artwork I’ve already seen is amazing.”
The exhibition features a broad mix of styles and subjects, from landscapes and wildlife to portraits and contemporary pieces.
“There’s a lot of talented people around, definitely, and all different styles too,” Ms Oddie said.
For those yet to experience the exhibition, her advice was simple.
“Come down and have a look at all the brilliant artwork,” she said.
The exhibition officially opens tonight, when prize winners will be announced and guests can enjoy supper provided by the Lilyana branch of the Country Women’s Association.
The exhibition will then be open from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday, and from 10am to 2pm on Monday, with entry including Devonshire tea served by the Beaufort Girl Guides.
Beyond the art show, visitors can browse thousands of titles at the Rotary Club of Beaufort’s annual second-hand book sale at the Beaufort RSL Hall, explore the Beaufort Photography Exhibition at the Beeripmo Development Centre and discover even more local creativity at Beaufort Art Trax Gallery.
Ms Oddie said the photography exhibition was another highlight of the weekend.
“I look at that, and they’re brilliant too,” she said.
“It’s another style of art.”
As artists put the finishing touches on their entries and volunteers prepare to welcome visitors through the doors, Ms Oddie is eager to see people experience the exhibition for themselves.
“It’s very relaxing just to wander around in the Beaufort Town Hall and look at all the wonderful art,” she said.
Read More: Beaufort