Apron art project supports domestic violence services through community exhibition

BALLINA RSL Club will host The Apron Project Roadshow that aims to support domestic and family violence services through a nationally celebrated community art initiative.

It will be held over two days with exhibition times on February 6 and 7.

Funds raised from door donations and raffles will go to the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond’s care packs, distributed to local organisations assisting people experiencing hardship.

The roadshow was founded by Sallianne McClelland in 2015, with more than 200 artists from around the world contributing with 400 stitched, painted and beaded aprons.

It has raised more than $100,000, with community members encouraged to create aprons, view the exhibition, or participate in workshops, highlighting the power of creativity in driving awareness and change.

This year’s roadshow will focus on educational bursaries for families, raising both funds and awareness for local women and children affected by domestic and family violence.

Sallianne McClelland has been running the project for more than a decade with hundreds of artists involved. Photo: SUPPLIED

“I’ve chosen Ballina as my first stop in 2026 because its community is leading efforts to promote respectful relationships through advocacy and school-based education aimed at reducing domestic and family violence,” McClelland said.

“I’m thrilled that Rotary Club Ballina-on-Richmond, supported by Ballina RSL Club, is backing our visit.”

The aprons will be auctioned online, with proceeds going directly to domestic violence services.

The auction closes on March 8 during the International Women’s Day High Tea Event at Hornsby RSL Club.

The 2026 roadshow will cover 2500 kilometres across seven towns in NSW over five weeks, educating communities about domestic and family violence and sharing stories through art and community engagement.

This year’s Rotary International theme, Unite for Good, encourages communities to come together in support of women’s health and wellbeing through collective action.

For more information, visit the website at eatcakecreate.com/apron-project-25