Allbutt to make significant donation to Cottage

A FIFTH generation Queenscliff resident is donating the proceeds from a special piece of art to local children’s charity Cottage by the Sea.

Darren Allbutt is submitting an eight-seater Jack Mac’s Jetty table into the coming Woodlands of the Bellarine exhibition, with its sale supporting Cottage’s life changing programs for young people.

The Allbutt family has a long history with Cottage by the Sea, dating back to when Darren’s late grandmother Daisy Myrtle Golightly was one of Cottage’s earliest volunteers.

In 1969, she was awarded a Certificate of Honour for Long Service to the League (now called Cottage by the Sea).

His mother Nancy May Albutt also spent time some time in rehabilitation at the Cottage in 1934, after she was struck down by polio.

Darren himself grew up just down the road from Cottage and has fond memories of enjoying the beach at Cottage as a child.

After the success of his Sea & Wood exhibition at Cottage last November, Darren looks forward to again making a difference to the local community with this donation.

“My parents always said to us, give something back to the town you live in.

“Since raising almost $20,000 at the Sea & Wood exhibition for Cottage by the Sea last November, I have been focusing on my art and more recently timber sculptures.

“I draw inspiration for my art from the beautiful landscapes in Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff. The Jack Mac’s Jetty was made from recycled timber from the old Swan Bay Jetty.”

Cottage by the Sea chief executive officer Adam Wake said Darren’s enduring support of the children’s charity is a testament to the power of community.

“We have strong ties to the local community and are thrilled that Darren has created this exceptional table inspired by our region as a generous donation to Cottage.”

Woodlands of the Bellarine is now open at Artisans Gallery, 1471-1479 Portarlington Road, Curlewis until August 11