Local family’s legacy shines on at Cottage

A FIFTH-GENERATION Queenscliff resident is continuing his family’s legacy at Cottage by the Sea by hosting a special fundraising exhibition.

Darren Allbutt will be selling arts, sculptures, and woodwork on-site on November 16 and November 17 to raise funds to support Cottage by the Sea’s lifechanging programs.

The Allbutt (Golightly) family has been involved with the Queenscliff children’s charity since the late 1800’s, when Darren’s late grandmother Daisy Myrtle Golightly became one of the charity’s first volunteers.

In 1934, Darren’s mother Nancy spent time in rehabilitation at the Cottage after she was struck down with the polio virus aged four.

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

He said the exhibition centres around “giving back to the town you live in” and honouring his ancestors.

“This exhibition is in memory of my late grandmother, Daisy.

“Knowing Gran, she would have wanted to thank Cottage for supporting her daughter [Nancy] through the ordeal by helping where she could.

“I’m thrilled to be continuing on our journey with Cottage and helping where I can.”

Mr Allbutt has been working on the exhibition pieces for over 12 months and said there will be plenty of great items up for grabs.

He has repurposed recycled timber to create his own sculptural and woodwork pieces, and crafted paintings inspired by the beautiful beaches surrounding Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.

Cottage by the Sea chief executive officer Adam Wake said the exhibition is a testament to the power of community.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the enduring work of Darren’s family while raising much-needed funds for our programs.

“We have such strong ties to the Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale community – sharing the same waters and rich history steeped into the land – so many of our supporters hail from this region.”

The exhibition will be held from 9am to 4pm both days.

All items are available to purchase and pick up after the exhibition.

For more information, head to cottagebythesea.com.au/events/9/sea-and-wood-exhibition