Art trail honours hospital’s incredible 150-year history

A SPECIAL launch function was held at Geelong Gallery last week to celebrate the opening of the Royal Children’s Hospital 150th Anniversary Art Trail.

The trail features the work of 100 artists state-wide, including 11 from this region, who painted a sculpture of an UooUoo – a mythical animal resembling a cross between a wombat and a dugong.

Ten of the eye-catching UooUoos were to be located around Geelong but, due to vandalism concerns, have been moved to Federal Mills where they will be on display until March 21.

The rest of the colourful creations are dotted throughout Melbourne. Among those on

display at Federal Mills is an UooUoo by Ocean Grove artist Laine Hogarty, named Pixo&Pixa, which was sponsored by Wealth Built Right.

“We have a number of connections with the Royal Children’s Hospital,” Wealth Built Right director Natalie Waterhouse explained.

“We thought this was a fantastic way to show our support for this wonderful, life saving institution.”

Ms Waterhouse’s daughter, Mia Grives, has been part of a research project through the hospital for her severe anaphylaxis.

Sue Hunt, CEO of the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation, officially launched Pixo&Pixa, before joining invited guests at a cocktail function.