Ursula Kelly with model (Southport Library Project customer) whom she sketched. The sketches were given to the person.

Posted by Wendy Cormack CFA Member
Sunday, 23 August 2009

Renowned Gold Coast artist Ursula Kelly felt compelled to offer an everlasting tribute to those whose lives had been devastated by the Victorian bushfires by donating two artworks to the CFA. After contacting CFA Headquarters, Ursula and fellow member of the Royal Queensland Art Society, Michael Hooper, were placed in contact with Yarra Valley Group’s Deputy Group Officer, Andrew Webber. Ms Kelly’s artworks are portrayed by photographs published in Queensland newspapers during the height of Victoria’s devastating fires. One stirring piece is titled “Hanna’s Boots”, while the other represents the famous photograph of CFA member David Tree and “Sam the Koala”. The artworks were lovingly transported to Victoria by Mr Hooper, then presented to Deputy Group Officer Andrew Webber and Group Officer Roly Rak during an informal presentation at the Woori Yallock Service. GO Rak was stunned by the sheer beauty of the paintings and felt the works are a fine example of how Victorian people shine in the face of adversity. The artworks will be hung at the Woori Yallock Service Centre. Ms Kelly has some of her works hanging permanently in Canberra, NSW, Queensland and Europe. The hunt is now on find “Hanna” who was portrayed in one of the paintings. GO Rak says “I would like Hanna to view Ms Kelly’s portrayal of her and meet some of the members of the Yarra Valley Group”. Brigade Administration Support Officer Wendy Cormack say “if you can help me locate Hanna and her family”, contact me at the Woori Yallock Service Centre.